• Source:JND
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Chennai News: A popular biryani restaurant in Kodungaiyur, north Chennai has been shut down by the Food Safety Department following reports of illness among customers. About 40 people experienced vomiting and diarrhoea after consuming biryani from SS Hyderabad Biryani on Monday.

The New Indian Express report quoted Dr P. Satheeshkumar, the designated food safety officer for Chennai, stated that many affected individuals began feeling unwell just three hours after eating the food. Some were admitted to the CommunicableDiseases Hospital in Tondiarpet, while others sought treatment at private hospitals. Approximately ten individuals were treated as outpatients.

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The complaint was received on Wednesday and the outlet was closed on Thursday. However, officials were unable to collect food samples for testing as the restaurant management had disposed of all food items. “The kitchen was found in an unhygienic condition, prompting the closure,” Satheeshkumar explained.

Local residents raised concerns about why the authorities did not seal the establishment immediately. An official clarified that sealing requires an order from the food safety commissioner. In urgent situations, officials can lock the premises temporarily. Satheeshkumar added that the restaurant must submit necessary documents, including a licence, within 15 days to be allowed to reopen.

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Meanwhile, the Chennai Corporation is monitoring the health of the affected individuals. It remains unclear whether the illnesses were due to food poisoning. An official noted that while some families reported consuming bucket biryani, it has yet to be confirmed if this was the case for all those who fell ill.