Nhuy Cam Elementary School in Vinh Loc Commune, Ca Mau Province, southern Vietnam, where 46 students have been hospitalized due to suspected food poisoning after consuming free-of-charge meals. Photo: Tuoi Tre contributor
The incident occurred at a free-of-charge meal program organized by the local Women’s Union for students at Nhuy Cam Elementary School in Vinh Loc Commune.
About two hours after eating, multiple students reported symptoms such as fatigue, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
All 46 affected students were taken to the Hong Dan Medical Center for monitoring, and most have since stabilized and been discharged.
A local official said the program had long provided free meals to disadvantaged students, typically prepared on-site.
However, in recent days, meals including banh mi, steamed buns, noodles, and rice, were sourced from external suppliers due to staffing constraints.
Authorities have not yet identified which specific food item may have caused the incident.
According to the Vietnam Food Safety Authority, local health officials must prioritize treatment, ensure patient safety, and conduct a full investigation, including tracing food origins and collecting samples for testing.
Any violations of food safety regulations will be strictly handled.
The health ministry also called for stronger food safety oversight in schools, particularly for collective kitchens, and emphasized the responsibility of school administrators in ensuring safe meal provision.
