Egyptian authorities have closed a Syrian restaurant in the Sidi Bishr area of Alexandria after multiple customers fell ill from food poisoning. The restaurant was shut down following a comprehensive inspection led by Walid Morsi, head of the El-Montazah First District. Inspectors discovered severe health and food safety violations, including unsanitary conditions and improper food storage.
The inspection revealed several health and food safety infractions, including dirty floors, presence of insects, and lack of sealed containers for waste collection. Additionally, some floor tiles were cracked, and food items were displayed outside the facility, exposing them to dust and flies. The restaurant also failed to meet required health standards. A report was filed, and necessary legal actions were taken against the establishment.
The closure of the restaurant is part of an intensified effort to monitor food establishments in Alexandria. The campaign was initiated following reports of food poisoning cases linked to the restaurant. According to officials, the restaurant's activities were suspended due to severe health and food safety violations. The decision to shut down the restaurant was made in coordination with local authorities and law enforcement agencies.
A total of 25 people have been reported to have suffered from food poisoning after consuming food from the restaurant. Five new cases were admitted to the Poison Center at the University Hospital, bringing the total number of cases treated there to 20. Five additional cases were treated at Kfar El Dawar Hospital. Fortunately, some patients have already recovered and been discharged from private hospitals in the Sidi Bishr area.
The incident came to light when local hospitals reported an influx of patients with severe food poisoning symptoms. The patients had consumed quick meals and sandwiches, including potato dishes, from the Syrian restaurant. Authorities promptly launched an investigation, involving a joint committee of food safety inspectors, health officials, and law enforcement agencies.
Patients were distributed across several medical facilities, including the Poison Center at the University Hospital, Kfar El Dawar General Hospital, and the Virgin Mary Hospital in Sidi Bishr. Most patients received treatment and were discharged after recovering from their symptoms. The incident highlights the importance of strict food safety regulations and regular inspections to prevent such incidents.
An investigation into the incident is ongoing, with authorities working to determine the exact cause of the food poisoning and to hold those responsible accountable. The case has been referred to the relevant authorities for further investigation and potential prosecution. Key points:
Key points
- A Syrian restaurant in Alexandria was shut down due to severe health and food safety violations.
- 25 people suffered from food poisoning after consuming food from the restaurant.
- Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident and are working to hold those responsible accountable.
