Greater Noida West Food Poisoning: Over 150 Fall Sick After Consuming Buckwheat Dishes

Greater Noida: On Maha Shivratri, the consumption of dishes made from buckwheat flour (kuttu atta) turned hazardous for residents of Greater Noida West. More than 150 people from seven housing societies fell ill after eating pakoras and puris made from the flour. Victims experienced sudden vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain, prompting urgent hospitalization. Among the sick were six members of a single family.

Hospitalizations and Critical Cases

At Yatharth Hospital, 28 patients were admitted, including seven men, 15 women, and six children. According to Dr. Parag Agrawal of New Med Hospital, over 50 patients arrived at the emergency unit. While some were treated and discharged, more than 25 required admission, and several critical cases were placed in the ICU.

Societies Affected

• Samriddhi Grand Avenue Society: 10 residents fell sick
• Harsh Vihar Society, Chipiyana Buzurg: 20+ residents affected
• Himalaya Pride Society: Residents reported buying the flour from a local grocery store
• Supertech Eco Village-3: Families reported sudden illness after breaking their fast

Even in Hapur, a family of four became ill after consuming buckwheat flour. In Badalpur, nine people from two families suffered similar symptoms and were treated at Badalpur CHC. All recovered and were discharged after medical observation.

Food Department Action

The Food Department has taken immediate action. Samples of the flour were collected from three locations for testing, and the supply unit has been sealed. The Bisrakh police have taken four individuals, including the warehouse owner, into custody.

According to Assistant Food Commissioner-2, Sarvesh Mishra, the affected flour was supplied under the A-Pure brand from a mill in Chipiyana Buzurg. The unit, HD Spice Manufacturing, owned by Vishesh Singh, was licensed in Ghaziabad, but local authorities in Gautam Buddh Nagar were unaware.

Investigation Ongoing

Health authorities are awaiting lab reports to confirm whether contamination or adulteration caused the food poisoning. Residents have been advised not to consume the flour from the affected brand until the investigation concludes.