A family in Sonitpur district, Assam, is grappling with profound grief after a suspected case of food poisoning led to the death of two family members.
Officials confirmed on Friday that a 53-year-old woman and her 9-year-old granddaughter died after consuming traditional Assamese rice cakes known as ‘pithas.’
The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community. Further, raised concerns over food safety practices, especially during festive or family gatherings when such traditional delicacies are commonly prepared.
Read more about food safety guidelines from FSSAI here.
Family Gathering Turns Into Nightmare
According to local sources, the tragic incident occurred on Thursday evening in a small village near Tezpur, the district headquarters of Sonitpur.
The family had prepared pithas, a popular sweet delicacy made from rice flour, coconut, and jaggery, which holds a special place in Assamese households.
The victims consumed the pithas along with other family members.
Soon after dinner, several members of the family began experiencing severe symptoms, including stomach pain, vomiting, and dizziness.
Two Lives Lost Despite Efforts
The elderly woman and her granddaughter were rushed to the nearest civil hospital in Tezpur as their condition worsened. Despite efforts by doctors, both succumbed to their symptoms within a few hours of admission.
Three other family members are reported to be under observation but are stated to be stable.
A relative said:
“They were perfectly fine before dinner. We never imagined that something as simple as pithas could become so deadly.”
Authorities Launch Investigation
Sonitpur district authorities have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the tragedy.
Samples of the leftover pithas have been collected for laboratory testing.
Officials suspect contamination either from ingredients used or unhygienic cooking conditions.
A senior health department officer stated:
“It’s too early to confirm the cause. We are investigating all angles, including possible contamination of raw materials.”
Follow updates from Sonitpur district administration here.
Food Safety Concerns in Assam
The incident has renewed focus on food safety standards in Assam, particularly in rural areas where traditional cooking practices are widespread but food safety awareness can be limited.
Experts warn that poor storage, use of expired ingredients, or improper cooking temperatures can lead to bacterial contamination.
Public health officials are urging citizens to ensure cleanliness while preparing food. Especially traditional dishes that involve sensitive ingredients like coconut or milk.
A food safety expert explained:
“Traditional foods are delicious but require strict hygiene. Ingredients like coconut and rice flour can spoil quickly in humid climates.”
Community in Mourning
The news of the deaths has cast a shadow over the small community in Sonitpur.
Neighbours and relatives gathered at the family’s residence to offer condolences and support.
Community leaders are calling for greater awareness campaigns on safe food handling. And the importance of checking ingredient quality.
One local resident shared:
“We are heartbroken. We pray no other family has to face such a tragedy.”
Officials Call for Caution
The health department is expected to issue guidelines for safe preparation of traditional foods, especially as various festivals approach when pithas and similar delicacies are commonly made.
Authorities have urged residents to:
- Ensure raw materials are fresh and sourced from reliable vendors.
- Maintain hygiene while cooking and storing food.
- Seek medical help immediately if food poisoning symptoms appear.
Health officials are also planning awareness camps in rural areas to educate people on the risks associated with unsafe cooking practices.
The Road Ahead
While the deaths have left a family shattered, officials hope the tragedy serves as a wake-up call to prioritise food safety.
Residents across Assam are being reminded that even traditional foods, cherished for generations, can pose dangers if proper precautions are not taken.
As Sonitpur district awaits lab reports to confirm the cause of death, the incident underscores the need for vigilance in every kitchen.
For further information on safe food practices, visit the FSSAI website.
Assam mourns the loss of two precious lives while pledging to prevent such incidents in the future.
