Bengaluru Boy Dies from Food Poisoning After Consuming Birthday Cake

In a heartbreaking incident, a five-year-old boy named Dheeraj from Bengaluru has died due to food poisoning after consuming stale food, with his parents, Balaraj and Nagalakshmi, currently in critical condition in the ICU. The incident took place in the KP Agrahara area where the family resides.

Family Background and Sequence of Events

Dheeraj lived in Bhubaneswari Nagar with his parents and younger sister. On Sunday night, Balaraj, a food delivery executive, shared dinner with Dheeraj. The following morning, the family awoke in severe pain, crying out for help. Neighbours promptly rushed them to a private hospital, but tragically, Dheeraj was declared dead upon arrival. His parents were found unconscious and admitted to KIMS Hospital’s ICU for urgent treatment. Due to their critical state, authorities are currently unable to obtain their statements regarding the incident.

Possible Causes of Food Poisoning

Initial investigations indicate that the family likely consumed stale food stored in their refrigerator. The food had been prepared a few days earlier, as their daughter was staying with her grandmother. However, there is growing speculation that a birthday cake may have contributed to the poisoning. Balaraj had received a cake order for delivery, which was cancelled by the customer. He then returned the cake home and stored it in the fridge. On Sunday night, the family shared the cake alongside their dinner, after which all three members fell seriously ill.

Medical Confirmation and Investigation

A medical report from KIMS Hospital confirmed that Dheeraj’s death was caused by food poisoning. Samples of the food consumed by the family have been collected and sent to a forensic laboratory for analysis. DCP Girish of the West Division confirmed that an investigation is underway, and they await the results of the forensic tests to determine the exact cause of the poisoning. A case has been registered at the KP Agrahara Police Station, with authorities keen to interview the parents once they regain consciousness.

Response from Swiggy

In response to this tragic event, Swiggy, the food delivery platform, expressed its condolences, stating, “We are heartbroken by the unfortunate incident in Bengaluru, and our thoughts are with the family during this incredibly difficult time.” The company has visited the hospital to offer support and is fully cooperating with authorities in their investigation. Swiggy emphasised its commitment to food safety, stating that it requires all restaurant partners to possess an FSSAI license before being listed on its platform.

Conclusion

This tragic incident highlights the serious risks associated with food safety and handling, especially in the context of leftover food. As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of a young life while hoping for the swift recovery of Dheeraj’s parents.