Gurugram restaurant manager arrested over curious case of freshener ‘ice’

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Gurugram, March 5

The Gurugram police have arrested the manager of a restaurant in Sector 90, where five people fell ill allegedly after consuming a mouth freshener that contained dry ice. The restaurant has been closed since the incident.

Dry ice unfit for consumption

New Delhi: Dry ice is a solid form of carbon dioxide commonly used at parties to create fog effects. However, experts warn that it can cause respiratory issues and even perforation of the stomach or intestines. Additionally, it may create a burning sensation in the throat, for which doctors typically administer antacids for immediate relief. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India deems dry ice unfit for consumption and urges commissioners of food safety of all states/UTs to initiate awareness campaigns among food business operators and people regarding the safe and proper handling of dry ice as a cooling agent. TNS

Manesar ACP Surender Sheoran visited La Forestta cafe-cum-restaurant in Sector 90 on Tuesday, while two of the five affected individuals are still hospitalised.

The arrested manager has been identified as Gagandeep (30), a resident of Kirti Nagar in Delhi.

“In the preliminary interrogation, the arrested manager revealed that it was merely negligence on the part of the restaurant staff as a packet of mouth freshener and dry ice was mistakenly mixed. He stated there was no malicious intent towards the guests and it was an unfortunate incident,” Sheoran added.

According to the complaint filed by Ankit Kumar, a resident of Greater Noida, they had visited a restaurant in Sector 90 on the night of March 3. After consuming food, they were provided with a mouth freshener which resulted in vomiting and a burning sensation in their mouths. Due to their deteriorating health, they were promptly taken to a hospital.

“I, along with my team, visited the restaurant, but found it locked even today. We have arrested the manager of the restaurant and he is being produced in a city court. We will issue a notice to the owner of the restaurant to cooperate with the investigation,” stated Sheoran.