Hyderabad: A Shawarma eatery in Hyderabad has been forced to close its doors after 17 patrons fell ill due to the consumption of Shawarma tainted with mayonnaise. Those affected reported symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and severe health complications after partaking in Shawarma at Grill House in Alwal.
The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) confirmed that blood tests conducted on the victims detected the presence of harmful salmonella bacteria, underscoring the critical need for swift intervention.
GHMC officials established that the root cause of the widespread illness was food contamination. The decision to shutter the Shawarma establishment in Hyderabad was prompted by a complaint lodged by Food Safety Officer (FSO) Lakshmikant. Charges have been filed under sections 273 and 269 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
Grill House manager Taufiq has been apprehended in connection with the incident.
GHMC officials revealed that the contamination at the Hyderabad Shawarma joint was traced back to the inclusion of mayonnaise, a condiment commonly utilized in dishes like Shawarma, kebabs, pizzas, burgers, and sandwiches. Mayonnaise, typically crafted with egg yolk, lemon juice, and oil, poses a risk when hygiene standards are compromised during preparation.
FSO Lakshmikant of GHMC cautioned that even properly prepared mayonnaise should be consumed within four hours, as prolonged storage could lead to contamination and subsequent illness.