Elbasan Prosecutor’s Office has officially launched an investigation into a suspected case of food poisoning involving young children at Kindergarten No. 1 in Gramsh, central Albania. The probe follows a wave of public concern sparked by reports on social media on May 24, when six children were hospitalized with symptoms consistent with foodborne illness.
Initial suspicions point to a salmonella infection, potentially contracted from meals served at the preschool facility, according to a report by Top Channel.
Following the public outcry, Crime Investigation Specialists initiated proceedings, and the case has now been formally handed over to the Elbasan Prosecutor’s Office for further legal action.
As part of the investigation, police have seized the children’s medical records, all relevant documentation regarding the kindergarten’s food supplies, and samples of the meals served for laboratory analysis. Leftover food products found in the kitchen have also been placed under lockdown.
Authorities are now focusing their investigation on the entire food supply chain, including the storage conditions and hygiene practices within the kindergarten’s kitchen facilities.
Lab results so far have confirmed three additional cases of salmonella infection, bringing the total to four confirmed cases. In total, 72 samples have been collected for testing, and further results are pending.
This incident has raised serious questions about food safety and oversight in public institutions caring for children, prompting calls for accountability and stricter hygiene controls.
