Paramedics rushed to the scene, after dozens of children fell ill – Photo: Facebook / RUSA
Paramedics rushed to the scene, after dozens of children fell ill – Photo: Facebook / RUSA
Children as young as five were left in agony during a school market day event last week. Dozens of learners were left needing immediate medical attention, after consuming a batch of toxic LOLLIPOPS from one of the stalls.
Lollipops ‘under investigation’ following school incident
The XPOP Energy Cola lollies, produced by Richester Foods, are now under investigation. Managing Director Hussein Cassim has vowed to get to the bottom of this situation, stressing that customer safety ‘remains a priority’.
“As responsible food manufacturers, food safety is critical to our business, and the health of our customers remains our priority. Accordingly, we are treating these claims with the seriousness and urgency they deserve and will get to the bottom of this situation as quickly as possible.”
Hussein Cassim
Poisoned lollipops send kids to hospital
It’s believed that ‘roughly 40 children’ came down with symptoms of food poisoning. Many reported experiencing severe abdominal pains and nausea, whereas others had difficulty breathing. This prompted an immediate response from local emergency crews.
Officers from Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA) were first on the scene. They were soon followed by paramedics and ambulances. A majority of the sick children were taken to hospital. Almost all victims had to be assessed in the school car park before leaving.
Sucker shocker: KZN primary school blighted by mass food poisoning
As per the RUSA team, both young children and teenagers alike fell ill on Friday 11 November. The lollipops had been sold on by other students, who were taking part in the market day event. It’s also worth noting that no lives were lost in this bizarre incident:
“Approximately 40 pupils from a primary school in Verulam, KZN displayed symptoms of food poisoning after consuming lollipops purchased during their market day event. RUSA received a call for assistance from an educator at approximately 11:42 on Friday.”
“Several pupils, aged between 5 to 13, approached educators and complained of severe abdominal pains, difficulty in breathing and nausea after consuming lollipops that were purchased from other learners. RUSA Members were immediately dispatched to the school.”
“Most of the ailing children were treated in the parking lot. Paramedics from several ambulance services arrived shortly thereafter, and assessed the minors. Most of the children were ferried to hospital by ambulance. Others were taken to medical facilities by their parents.” | RUSA statement
