Five individuals fell ill after consuming mouth freshener at a café in Gurugram. They experienced symptoms including blood vomiting and reported cuts on their tongues following ingestion of the mouth freshener, according to sources. Ankit Kumar, accompanied by his wife and friends, patronized Laforestta café in Gurugram on March 2.
Kumar documented the distressing scene, capturing individuals writhing in pain. The viral footage depicts a woman in visible agony, mouth agape in a scream, while a man can be seen vomiting on the floor. Another woman is observed attempting to alleviate the burning sensation on her tongue by applying ice.
The incident has raised concerns about the safety and quality of food products served at the café, prompting authorities to investigate the matter. Such occurrences underscore the importance of stringent quality control measures and adherence to food safety regulations in food establishments to prevent such health hazards.
As the investigation unfolds, authorities aim to identify the root cause of the incident and take appropriate action to prevent similar occurrences in the future. Meanwhile, patrons are advised to exercise caution when consuming food items and report any adverse reactions promptly to ensure public health and safety.
According to the individual who lodged the complaint, their ordeal began after they had finished their dinner when a waiter served them mouth freshener. Shortly thereafter, their health rapidly deteriorated, prompting their urgent hospitalization. Disturbingly, the staff at the restaurant had absconded by the time medical assistance was sought, further complicating the situation, he asserted.
Ankit Kumar, who took charge of reporting the incident to the authorities, recounted, “I showed the mouth freshener packet to a doctor, who identified it as dry ice. The doctor cautioned that dry ice contains acid, posing a severe threat that could potentially result in fatalities.” The revelation underscores the gravity of the situation and the urgency of the medical response required.
Reports indicate that the victims immediately experienced a burning sensation in their mouths, followed by uncontrollable vomiting. Despite attempts to alleviate their discomfort, including cooling measures, their condition did not improve. The severity of the symptoms underscores the hazardous nature of the substance ingested.
Of the five affected individuals, two are currently in critical condition, underscoring the seriousness of the incident. The police have initiated legal proceedings against the restaurant owner in accordance with the victims’ complaints, signaling a proactive response to hold accountable those responsible for the harm inflicted.
Dry ice, known for its extreme cold temperature, can pose significant risks if mishandled. Direct contact with the skin can result in frostbite, highlighting the importance of proper handling and storage procedures to mitigate potential dangers.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the paramount importance of stringent safety measures and vigilance in the food industry to safeguard public health. Authorities are urged to conduct a thorough investigation to ascertain accountability and prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
Dry Ice is Prone to Serious Injuries
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of the United States issued a warning regarding the consumption of dry ice due to its potential to cause serious injuries and internal damage. According to the FDA, both liquid nitrogen and dry ice should not be ingested directly or come into contact with exposed skin. While incidents of accidental consumption or contact with dry ice and liquid nitrogen in food are rare, the resulting injuries can be severe. This advisory underscores the importance of handling these substances with caution and implementing safety measures to prevent harm.
