A number of students of the Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS) in Telangana allegedly fell ill after eating from the college canteen. The incident happened on Thursday at Polepally in the Jadcherla Mandal of Mahabubnagar district.
The university administration, as per the students who were afflicted, hired medical practitioners to treat the students on campus, purportedly in a bid to keep the problem out of the public eye. But when they did not get any better, most of them were subsequently sent to the hospital for proper attention, making the issue public.
The administration of the college attributed the food poisoning to food eaten outside the college and said that only 27 students were affected. But reports said that almost 80 students had been affected.
The administration of the college attributed the food poisoning to food eaten outside the college and said that only 27 students were affected. But reports said that almost 80 students had been affected.
Some students insisted that the college canteen food was the cause of their illness. Sources stated that in spite of repeated complains regarding food quality, their pleas were mostly left unheard by the authorities.
Though this was a one-time incident, food safety is a major issue in the state. In October 2024, the Telangana government acted by prohibiting raw egg-based mayonnaise, encouraging safer options to enhance public health and hygiene. This was after a tragic accident in Hyderabad, in which one individual lost their life and 15 others fell sick after eating contaminated momos.
About Food Poisoning:
Food poisoning is a form of foodborne illness that happens if an individual takes contaminated food or drink. It is usually brought about by toxic bacteria, viruses, parasites, or food toxins.
Common signs of food poisoning are discomfort in the stomach, diarrhea, and vomiting. They occur after a few hours of consumption of spoiled food or develop in a matter of several days. Most times, the illness is mild and ends up disappearing without needing any kind of medical care.
In a few cases, food poisoning results in severe complications to one's health, prompting medical treatment. Food handling, hygiene, and cooking procedures in the right way can minimize foodborne illnesses. [1]
References:
1. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/food-poisoning/symptoms-causes/syc-20356230
(Input from various sources)
(Rehash/Sai Sindhuja K/MSM)