Beef biryani served at a baptism ceremony in Kochi became a disaster as those who ate it fell severely ill. The administration decided to take action against the catering owner, but he is on the run. 

Food Safety department officers informed that they would initiate proceedings against one Harris, a resident of Mattancherry. Harris and his delivery team delivered stale beef biryani to Fabian Roy’s son’s baptism at Mundamveli. The ceremony was scheduled for Sunday afternoon at the Saudi Parish Hall. 

Harris delivered biryani for 135 people, and 30 people sat down to eat first. Those who ate said there was a foul smell when the vessel was opened. It is unknown why they consumed it anyway—all those who ate the beef biryani suffered from itchy throat, vomiting, and diarrhea. 

When they noticed the issue, Roy called Harris, the owner of the catering firm. Meanwhile, catering boys who came to serve food escaped, and the family immediately informed the police. Police reached Thoppumpadi and tried to contact Harris but were unsuccessful.

Roy arranged food from another caterer for those who came to the ceremony. Police informed the officials of the food safety department, who arrived, collected the biriyani samples, and tested them. They confirmed that rotten meat was used, following which police registered a case against Harris. Food safety department officials also said that the catering owner’s license would be suspended.

It is still being determined whether the food was halal-compliant. A particular community in the name of halal now owns most catering firms in Kerala. They have a history of blowing and spitting into cooked food and drinking water to ‘bless’ the same.

Islamist apologists claim that they ‘blow’ over the food – even then, there is every chance of specks of spit dropping into the food. For individuals who hold such superstitions, it is all well and good. When it comes to people who belong to other religious groups, it is not only unhygienic but an imposition of their religious beliefs as well.