In the Brownstone Peixin kindergarten located in Tianshui city, Gansu province, China, hundreds of children have been reported poisoned, prompting a serious investigation. This was reported by Zamin.uz.
It has been revealed that more than 230 children were poisoned after consuming food mixed with industrial dyes. This incident has been assessed as one of the largest exposures of food safety issues in schools and kindergartens in the country.
An investigation conducted by the provincial party committee found that safety regulations were not followed in food preparation, as well as attempts to cover up the incident, bribery, and efforts to alter test results. The kindergarten director ordered the use of industrial dyes to make the food look more appealing in order to increase the number of children.
The chef purchased special dyes from an online store and added them to the food. Although there was a warning label indicating that these dyes were not suitable for consumption, it was ignored.
Analysis revealed that a toxic substance with lead levels 400,000 times higher than the norm was found. Initially, 235 children were hospitalized, showing symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, and darkening of teeth.
Final inspections revealed that a total of 247 children and some staff members had lead levels above the norm in their blood. The kindergarten director and five staff members were arrested on charges of using toxic substances.
Additionally, a disciplinary investigation was launched against 27 employees in schools, hospitals, and local government. During the investigation, many deficiencies were identified in the sanitary-epidemiological control center and hospital laboratories.
Test samples were improperly taken, and results were falsified. The local education department also faced serious accusations in this incident.
Sanitary and food safety inspections have not been conducted in private kindergartens for two years, and it was found that the kindergarten was operating without a license. Some officials are suspected of being interested in the kindergarten and investors, and of engaging in bribery.
The anti-corruption agency has initiated an investigation against government and hospital officials. Currently, all children have been treated, with only one continuing treatment.
In the first stage of treatment, the lead levels in the blood decreased by an average of 40 percent. The provincial government and party committee expressed deep regret to the parents.
Following the publication of the article, large protests by parents took place in front of the kindergarten. Clashes occurred between police and parent representatives, temporarily blocking roads.
Some videos captured instances of the use of force. Parents are demanding, "Hand over the perpetrators!"
Investigations into the incident are ongoing.
