Shop, Warehouse Sealed in Greater Noida After Multiple Residents Fall Ill From Kuttu Flour

Authorities in Greater Noida have sealed a local shop and its associated warehouse after several residents reportedly fell ill from consuming contaminated kuttu (buckwheat) flour. The swift action came following complaints of food poisoning-like symptoms from multiple families in the area.

According to officials, residents began reporting nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and dizziness shortly after consuming food prepared using kuttu flour. The flour is commonly used during fasting periods, particularly during Hindu festivals when wheat-based products are avoided.

Sudden Spike in Illness Cases

Local health authorities confirmed that several individuals were taken to nearby hospitals after experiencing symptoms consistent with food contamination. While no fatalities have been reported, officials described the situation as “serious enough” to warrant immediate investigation.

Doctors treating affected patients indicated that symptoms appeared within a few hours of consumption, suggesting possible bacterial contamination or improper storage of the flour. Samples of the suspected flour have been sent for laboratory testing to determine the exact cause.

Food Safety Department Steps In

The Food Safety Department of Uttar Pradesh launched an inspection after receiving complaints from residents. During the raid, officials allegedly found irregularities in storage conditions at both the retail shop and the linked warehouse.

Authorities stated that:

• The premises were not maintaining proper hygiene standards.

• Flour stocks were stored in unsuitable conditions.

• Packaging and labeling norms may not have been properly followed.

Following the inspection, officials sealed both the shop and the warehouse under food safety regulations pending further investigation.

What Is Kuttu Flour?

Kuttu flour, also known as buckwheat flour, is widely consumed during religious fasting in North India. It is gluten-free and often used to prepare puris, pakoras, and rotis during Navratri and other fasting periods.

However, experts warn that buckwheat flour is highly sensitive to moisture and improper storage. If exposed to damp conditions, it can develop fungal contamination or bacterial growth, potentially leading to food poisoning.

Food safety experts emphasize that:

• Flour should be stored in dry, airtight containers.

• Retailers must avoid stocking old or expired batches.

• Consumers should check for unusual smell, discoloration, or clumping before use.

Residents Demand Accountability

Several affected residents have demanded strict action against the shop owner. Families claim they purchased the flour shortly before falling sick and suspect that a contaminated batch was distributed locally.

Authorities have assured residents that strict legal action will be taken if negligence is confirmed. Under food safety laws, penalties may include fines, license suspension, or even criminal charges in severe cases.

Investigation Ongoing

Officials have collected food samples from both the sealed warehouse and affected households. The final laboratory report will determine whether contamination occurred during manufacturing, storage, or distribution.

Health teams are also monitoring the condition of affected residents. Most patients are reported to be stable after receiving medical treatment.

Meanwhile, authorities have advised residents to:

• Avoid consuming unpackaged or loose flour products.

• Purchase food items from trusted and certified vendors.

• Report any suspected food contamination immediately.

Broader Food Safety Concerns

Incidents involving contaminated fasting food items are not new. During peak festival seasons, demand for kuttu flour rises sharply, sometimes leading to supply chain shortcuts and storage lapses.

Food safety officials reiterated that strict inspections will continue in the coming days to prevent further health risks. Additional checks may be conducted across Greater Noida markets to ensure compliance with hygiene and storage standards.

Conclusion

The sealing of the shop and warehouse in Greater Noida highlights the critical importance of food safety, particularly during festival seasons when consumption patterns change. While no serious long-term injuries have been reported, the incident serves as a reminder for both vendors and consumers to remain vigilant.

Authorities are awaiting lab results to confirm the exact cause of contamination. Until then, residents are urged to exercise caution and prioritize hygiene when purchasing and storing food items.

❓  FAQs

1️⃣ Why was the shop sealed in Greater Noida?

The shop and its warehouse were sealed after multiple residents reportedly fell ill from consuming contaminated kuttu flour.

2️⃣ What symptoms did residents experience?

Affected individuals reported nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and dizziness shortly after eating food prepared with the flour.

3️⃣ What is kuttu flour?

Kuttu flour, also known as buckwheat flour, is commonly consumed during Hindu fasting periods such as Navratri.

4️⃣ Has anyone been seriously injured?

No fatalities have been reported. Most patients are said to be stable after medical treatment.

5️⃣ What action will authorities take?

If negligence is confirmed, officials may impose fines, suspend licenses, or initiate legal proceedings under food safety laws.