Children hospitalized in Quetta after eating suspected contaminated ice cream
QUETTA: More than 20 children were hospitalized in Quetta’s Sariab area after reportedly consuming contaminated ice cream, health authorities confirmed on Saturday. The alarming food safety incident has raised serious concerns among parents and health officials in the provincial capital.
Dr. Abdul Hadi, Medical Superintendent of Civil Hospital Quetta, told media representatives that the affected children were brought in unconscious from Killi Kechi Beg, Qambrani Road, and Bashir Chowk localities. Emergency medical teams rushed to provide immediate treatment.
According to Dr. Hadi, preliminary findings suggest the children had eaten ice cream unfit for consumption. “Eight children have been discharged after initial medical relief, while 12 remain under treatment. Thankfully, none of the cases are currently critical,” he added.
Investigation underway
Local police have begun searching for the suspected ice cream vendor following complaints lodged by parents. Authorities are also working with food safety and health departments to trace the source of contamination. Officials are testing samples to confirm whether the ice cream contained harmful bacteria or unsafe ingredients.
Rising food safety concerns
The incident has reignited debate over food safety standards in Pakistan, especially in urban areas where roadside vendors often sell unhygienic products to children. Public health experts stress the urgent need for stricter food monitoring, hygiene inspections, and consumer awareness campaigns to prevent such life-threatening situations.
Community reactions
Parents in the affected neighborhoods expressed fear and anger, urging authorities to crack down on unlicensed street food vendors. Many highlighted the lack of effective monitoring by local food safety authorities.
Meanwhile, child health specialists have advised parents to remain cautious about what their children consume, emphasizing the dangers of unhygienic street food.
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