Authorities in Pelotas, Brazil, are investigating a potential food poisoning outbreak linked to the consumption of cold chicken pie during Christmas dinner. At least five members of the same family reported severe symptoms, including fever, vomiting, and diarrhea, after consuming the dish purchased from Circulu’s Lanches, a local eatery.
The disturbing incident unfolded on December 24, 2024, when the family fell ill shortly after their holiday meal. Responding to this alarming situation, Pelotas’ Health Surveillance agency sprang to action, inspecting the restaurant just two days later, on December 26. Aline Machado, the director of Health Surveillance, stated, "Estamos trabalhando para apontar o responsável e evitar novos casos," which translates to "We are working to identify those responsible and prevent new cases.”
During the inspection, health agents collected samples from various ingredients used to prepare the dish, including mayonnaise, palm hearts, and olives. Alongside these, biological materials from the afflicted family members were also sent for laboratory testing to pinpoint the exact cause of the outbreak. Machado emphasized the urgency of their investigation, noting, "Estamos atenciosos e disponíveis para prestar esclarecimentos às famílias impactadas" (We are attentive and available to provide clarification to affected families).
While the focus remains on the cold chicken pie, the health authorities had also been alerted to another concerning trend. Between December 24 and December 25, Pelotas experienced 22 cases of gastroenteritis, with reports indicating 11 individuals receiving treatment at the local emergency unit and another 11 seeking care from private health services. Though symptoms were similar, health officials have yet to conclusively link these cases to the cold chicken pie.
"Possivelmente podem ter relação com o caso, mas só saberemos após chegarmos a todos que consumiram torta fria do local" (They may possibly be related to the case, but we will only know after reaching all who consumed pie from the establishment), Machado noted, underscoring the challenging nature of the investigation. The health surveillance team is actively interviewing individuals who purchased the pie during the holiday, gathering information to establish potential connections to the broader outbreak.
Meanwhile, Circulu’s Lanches has been open about the situation, issuing statements on social media platforms expressing their concern for affected customers. The management assured the public of their commitment to hygiene, stating, "A vigilância sanitária fez uma inspeção detalhada e não identificou irregularidades" (The sanitation authority conducted a detailed inspection and found no irregularities). They pledged to collaborate fully with health authorities to unravel this troubling incident and reiterated the ethical foundations guiding their operations.
The business has maintained rigorous food safety practices for over three decades, focusing on cleanliness and quality. "Estamos atentos e disponíveis para prestar esclarecimentos às famílias impactadas" (We are attentive and available to provide clarifications to impacted families), the management stated, assuring customers of their diligence during this process.
With the investigation still underway, local health officials have advised the community on precautions to take during festive seasons. They encourage individuals to verify the source and quality of food, strictly monitor storage conditions, and always check expiration dates before consuming products sourced externally.
Aline Machado and her team await concrete results from the laboratory tests, which will hopefully shed light on the precise agent causing this foodborne illness. The health department's findings could lead to the possible censure of the restaurant or at least prompt enhanced regulations surrounding food safety standards during holiday seasons when the risk of foodborne illness may increase.
The community’s unwavering vigilance is now more necessary than ever, as Pelotas families navigate the aftermath of this incident. It serves as a stark reminder of the importance of food safety, particularly during festive gatherings when culinary pleasures are often elevated to celebrations. Health officials remind everyone to be watchful, especially with the holiday season fostering increased consumption of prepared and shared foods.
While the health department continues its investigation, public health remains the top priority for both residents and local businesses alike. The goal is clear: to restore confidence and assurance within the community as they work together to prevent any such future outbreaks.
