Watermelon, biryani test results in Mumbai family of four deaths likely today, says FDA

MUMBAI: There could be some answers on Wednesday as to what went down at the Dodakia house after 1am Sunday that killed all four family members, and whether watermelon played a role in the deaths. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) officers said samples of the fruit, water mixed with cinnamon powder-like substance, pulao-biryani, raw rice, spicesand half-eaten dates were taken for testing, with results expected Wednesday.

An official told TOI the administration is working alongside police and forensic teams. “Food sample results will help solve one part of the mystery, but the forensic reports, which will take more time, are vital,” the official said.

Another FDA official saidthe food samples have been shared between the forensic laboratory. The FDA's role will be limited to establishing whether each sample adheres to regulatory standards. This involves analysing the composition of each sample and comparing it against FSSAI profile norms. “This will tell us if a particular edible product is what is claimed to be or if it is something else. But whether it is toxic, only the forensic report will be able to confirm.”

The investigation has been split among four agencies —the Directorate of Forensic Science Laboratories at Kalina, JJ Marg police, the FDA and JJ Hospital’s pathology department.

A senior doctor from the hospital noted the symptoms, such as the kidneys being severely impacted, were typical of food poisoning, though similar symptoms can also manifest after the ingestion of other substances. The hospital is currently analysing renal samples, which could take weeks to churn out results. Police sources told TOI they have requested the Kalina forensic lab to prioritise the chemical analysis report. However, the lab often takes months, or even years, to produce results due to a heavy backlog.

The deceased Bhendi Bazaar residents have been identified as Abdulla Dodakia, 44, who owned a mobile phone accessories shop in Andheri; his wife, Nasreen, 35; and daughters Ayesha, 16, and Zainab, 12.

Five other extended family members—who gathered at the house for a Saturday night feast of pulao-biryani but left before the four deceased ate the watermelon—reported no symptoms. Police said nothing suspicious was found on the family’s mobile phones that have been forwarded to forensic labs. The family’s financial history is also under investigation. “We still do not suspect foul play, but are waiting for the post-mortem and other reports to provide the exact cause of death,” a cop said.

In the meantime, rumours swirled around Bhendi Bazaar about another group of residents being rushed to JJ Hospital due to watermelon-linked food poisoning. The hospital has clarified no new patients have been admitted.

In the wake of the deaths, Congress corporator Mohammed Amir Naseem Khan has written to mayor Ritu Tawde, urging an urgent review of food safety standards across restaurants, cloud kitchens and online delivery platforms.
(Inputs by Richa Pinto )
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