PHOTOS. Under What Conditions Was the Food for Poisoned Children Prepared? Operations of a Children's Center Suspended

The inspection staff of the Food Safety Inspectorate of Armenia, as previously reported, initiated control measures at the 'Elka' Child Development Center in Yerevan following a report about the hospitalization of 10 children suspected of food poisoning.

As a result, significant violations of sanitary and hygiene norms as defined by Armenian legislation were discovered at the center, owned by individual entrepreneur Gayane Ter-Petrosyan. In particular, the rules for hygienic proper conduct were not ensured, including protection against cross-contamination. There were no designated areas with the necessary facilities for washing, disinfecting, and storing work tools and utensils. The door to the restroom opened directly into the food preparation area, and no appropriate measures had been taken to prevent the entry of animals and insects into the spaces for food preparation, processing, storage, and transportation.

The staff involved in the food chain at this center had not undergone preliminary and periodic medical examinations and did not possess sanitary books.

The activities of the 'Elka' Child Development Center have been suspended, with a deadline set for the elimination of the violations. It is worth mentioning that samples have been taken from the food available at the center, as well as from surfaces and equipment that come into contact with food, and submitted for laboratory examination. We will provide additional information regarding the results as it becomes available.