In a shocking revelation, an investigation has uncovered that provincial officials and hospital staff attempted to conceal a severe lead poisoning incident that affected around 200 children at Peixin Kindergarten in Tianshui, Gansu province. The scandal erupted after it was determined that the kindergarten used inedible paint to artificially enhance the appearance of meals served to the children, resulting in lead levels far exceeding safety regulations.
Early reports indicate that the lead content in food samples was measured at 2,000 times above the permissible national limits. Following the outbreak, authorities detained eight individuals, including the kindergarten's principal, cooks, and an investor involved in the toxic food supply. As of the latest updates, six arrests have been made, while ten additional officials are facing formal investigations and disciplinary actions.
The disturbing situation came to light after 235 children were hospitalized for lead poisoning after consuming contaminated red date cakes and sausage corn buns on July 8. Fortunately, 234 of these children have since been discharged and are recovering.
The Gansu Provincial Centre for Disease Control and Prevention had initiated testing for students and staff at Peixin after early symptoms were reported, but the findings were seriously compromised due to negligence in following proper testing procedures. The inquiry indicated that some officials even accepted bribes to overlook food safety inspections at various pre-school institutions.
The report has caused a significant stir across Chinese social media, with mixed reactions about the investigations and calls for accountability from the responsible parties. While provincial-level officials were criticized sharply, it was noted that the central government responded swiftly by convening an expert panel to address gaps in food safety protocols.
In response to the crisis, new national guidelines have been issued mandating stringent testing of food before distribution in educational institutions. Additionally, authorities in Tianshui have announced free medical treatment for affected children at designated hospitals and legal assistance for their families. The Peixin Kindergarten's operations will now be temporarily overseen by a state-owned facility as the investigation continues.
Early reports indicate that the lead content in food samples was measured at 2,000 times above the permissible national limits. Following the outbreak, authorities detained eight individuals, including the kindergarten's principal, cooks, and an investor involved in the toxic food supply. As of the latest updates, six arrests have been made, while ten additional officials are facing formal investigations and disciplinary actions.
The disturbing situation came to light after 235 children were hospitalized for lead poisoning after consuming contaminated red date cakes and sausage corn buns on July 8. Fortunately, 234 of these children have since been discharged and are recovering.
The Gansu Provincial Centre for Disease Control and Prevention had initiated testing for students and staff at Peixin after early symptoms were reported, but the findings were seriously compromised due to negligence in following proper testing procedures. The inquiry indicated that some officials even accepted bribes to overlook food safety inspections at various pre-school institutions.
The report has caused a significant stir across Chinese social media, with mixed reactions about the investigations and calls for accountability from the responsible parties. While provincial-level officials were criticized sharply, it was noted that the central government responded swiftly by convening an expert panel to address gaps in food safety protocols.
In response to the crisis, new national guidelines have been issued mandating stringent testing of food before distribution in educational institutions. Additionally, authorities in Tianshui have announced free medical treatment for affected children at designated hospitals and legal assistance for their families. The Peixin Kindergarten's operations will now be temporarily overseen by a state-owned facility as the investigation continues.
