On March 10, information about cases of poisoning among visitors to this establishment, located at: 18 Baytik Baatyr Street, was received by the sanitary authorities. Experts immediately went to the infectious disease hospital to interview the affected individuals.
During an unscheduled inspection, the sanitary epidemiological specialists identified serious violations in the storage of prepared dishes. The cafeteria had a serving line where side dishes and other meals were kept on warming trays.
Asanakunova noted that the mashed potatoes had been on the serving line longer than the permitted time, which is a violation of sanitary norms that require it to be replaced every two hours. Although the establishment maintains logs for food disposal, some dishes were not replaced in the designated time. The State Center for Sanitary and Epidemiological Surveillance (CGSEN) suspects this occurred during a shift change at the 24-hour cafeteria. Food samples were sent to the laboratory, and results are expected in a week.
The sanitary doctor explained that although mashed potatoes are perceived as a harmless dish, they contain milk and butter, which, if stored too long, can become a breeding ground for microorganisms and provoke mass poisoning.
After the inspection, the cafeteria was temporarily closed at the direction of the sanitary authorities. It will remain closed until the source of the contamination is determined and the test results are received. Disinfection, a thorough cleaning, and equipment sanitization are being conducted at the establishment. All employees underwent testing for bacteria and a repeat medical examination.
The affected individuals complained of persistent vomiting, diarrhea, high fever, headaches, and severe abdominal pain. Most of them sought help at the infectious disease hospital on their own, where they received the necessary medical assistance.
Asanakunova also reminded that in cases of severe food poisoning symptoms, such as high fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and signs of dehydration, one should seek medical help immediately to avoid serious consequences.
According to the sanitary service, in 2025, Bishkek recorded 159 cases of food poisoning. In 2026, two mass incidents have already been recorded, including the incident at the "Buffet" cafeteria.
We remind you that a mass poisoning occurred in Bishkek: the affected individuals consumed dishes prepared at the "Buffet" cafeteria. Initially, 13 affected individuals were reported, but on March 12, their number increased to 20.
During the investigation, the cafeteria located at 18 Baytik Baatyr Street is closed. Other establishments in the city continue to operate as usual. The company has been fined 23,000 soms, and the epidemiological investigation is ongoing.
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