Bakery faces action after synthetic sweetener found in Cake linked to Punjab girl’s death

Authorities have revealed that a synthetic sweetener was detected in the cake believed to have caused the death of a 10-year-old girl in Punjab. The tragic incident occurred on March 24 when the girl’s family became ill after consuming the chocolate cake, ordered online from a bakery in Patiala to celebrate her birthday.

According to District Health Officer Dr Vijay Jindal, a sample of the cake was tested and found to contain a high concentration of saccharine, an artificial sweetener. While saccharine is commonly used in food and beverages in small quantities, excessive intake can lead to a rapid increase in blood glucose levels.

A 10-year-old dies after eating birthday cake. The family alleged that their daughter died right after consuming her birthday cake, and other family members fell ill too. A case has been registered against the bakery shop owner under Sections 273 and 304A of the IPC. pic.twitter.com/Qb7U1IEnOn

— Gagandeep Singh (@Gagan4344) March 30, 2024

Following the investigation, authorities have announced plans to take action against the bakery responsible. An FIR (First Information Report) has already been filed against the bakery owner, and fines may be imposed as part of the punitive measures.

The tragic turn of events was captured in a widely circulated social media video, showing the girl, named Manvi, joyfully celebrating her birthday with her family shortly before her untimely demise. 

Hours after consuming the cake, both Manvi and her younger sister fell ill, experiencing symptoms such as vomiting and dryness in the mouth

Despite being rushed to the hospital and receiving oxygen, Manvi could not be saved and was declared dead shortly thereafter. The family has alleged that the cake from ‘Cake Kanha’ contained poisonous substances, sparking concerns about food safety standards and online food ordering practices.