Dahod/Vadodara, April 21 (IANS) Laboratory testing of food samples collected from a wedding function in Dahod district is underway as authorities investigate a mass illness that left more than 200 people symptomatic and dozens hospitalised.

Officials said samples of paneer (cottage cheese) curry, puri, mango juice, and water from both tanker and local sources have been sent to the Food and Drug Laboratory in Vadodara.

Additional samples have also been collected from the producers of paneer and mango juice to determine the source of contamination.

The incident occurred on Monday evening at a wedding event in Abhlod village of Garbada taluka.

Food prepared by caterer Dhanabhai Bharwad was served at the function.

According to the Chief District Health Officer (CDHO), between 1,000 and 1,200 people consumed the food, of whom 222 reported symptoms including diarrhoea, vomiting, nausea and stomach pain.

The Food and Drug Regulation Authority (FDCA) was informed on Tuesday. The state government has sought a detailed report from district authorities following the incident.

State Health Minister Praful Pansheriya said, “The incident occurred yesterday evening at a private event. Civil Hospital is treating the patients who were affected. I have sought a detailed report from the district administration. The report will be submitted in 1–2 days.”

Health officials said 184 people have been discharged after treatment, while 34 remained admitted in hospitals as of Tuesday afternoon.

Others with milder symptoms were treated at local hospitals and primary health centres.

Doctors said patients began reporting symptoms shortly after consuming food at the event, prompting a large-scale medical response, with several individuals transported to hospitals by ambulance and private vehicles.

Dr Nayan Joshi, Dahod epidemic officer, said officials from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) are assisting in the investigation.

“FSSAI officials are currently at the site assisting state authorities with sample collection. The findings will be shared soon,” he said.

Authorities have not confirmed the source of contamination.

Officials said further administrative and legal action will depend on the findings of the district report and laboratory analysis, which are expected in the coming days.

No deaths have been reported, and most patients are stated to be in stable condition.

–IANS

mys/uk