Berhampur: Laboratory tests have confirmed that the mango kernel consumed in Kandhamal district, which led to two deaths and six hospitalizations, is unsuitable for human consumption. The state govt’s food analysts also found that water samples from the affected Mandipanka village in Daringbadi block were contaminated with faecal matter.
“The sample of mango kernel does not fall under any food categories specified under the Food Security and Safety Act-2006. Physical examination revealed the samples were unfit for human consumption due to foul smell,” stated the govt food analysts’ report.
On October 30, eight women fell ill after consuming mango kernel with pakhala (water rice). They started vomiting and experienced abdominal pain and altered sensorium, according to Santosh Kumar Padhy, chief district medical officer, Kandhamal.
Two women died on November 1, while six others are currently receiving treatment. Four patients are admitted at MKCG Medical College and Hospital, Berhampur and the rest at SCB Medical College and Hospital, Cuttack. Their condition is reported to be stable.
Opposition parties alleged that villagers were forced to eat mango kernels due to lack of rice under the food security scheme. However, BJP’s Kandhamal district president Jagannath Sahu refuted these claims and said, “If they have no rice, how could they prepare the pakhala?”
Revenue divisional commissioner (southern division) Roopa Roshan Sahoo, who visited Mandipanka village on Wednesday, has begun an investigation as directed by the govt. The inquiry report is expected within a week.
Medical teams collected samples from the village for laboratory testing. While water samples from one source showed faecal contamination, samples from other sources were found suitable for consumption, according to district public health laboratory tests.