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Accidental acute fatal sodium nitrite poisoning
S Gautami1, R N Rao, T C Raghuram
1Food and Drug Toxicology Research Centre, National Institute of Nutrition, Indian Council of Medical Research, Hyderabad.
Journal of Toxicology. Clinical Toxicology
|January 1, 1995
Summary
A food poisoning outbreak caused by accidental sodium nitrite and potassium arsenate contamination led to 14 deaths. These toxic chemicals were mistakenly used instead of salt in tamarind soup preparation.
Area of Science:
- Food safety and toxicology
- Chemical analysis in forensic science
- Public health epidemiology
Background:
- Accidental poisoning incidents highlight the critical importance of proper chemical identification and storage.
- Food preparation errors can have severe public health consequences, necessitating stringent safety protocols.
Observation:
- A severe food poisoning outbreak resulted in a high mortality rate (14 of 22 individuals).
- Chemical analysis of food samples and autopsy tissues confirmed the presence of sodium nitrite and potassium arsenate.
Findings:
- The outbreak was traced to the accidental substitution of sodium nitrite and potassium arsenate for table salt during tamarind soup preparation.
- High concentrations of these toxic substances were detected in food materials and biological samples from affected individuals.
Implications:
- This case underscores the need for clear labeling, secure storage, and rigorous verification processes for food ingredients and chemicals.
- Enhanced public awareness and training on food safety are crucial to prevent similar accidental poisoning events.