Specialists went to the infectious disease hospital, where they interviewed the affected individuals. During an unscheduled inspection, Asanakunova reported that serious violations of food storage regulations were identified.
At the serving line in the cafeteria, where side dishes and main courses were kept in chafing dishes, it was found that the mashed potatoes had been stored longer than the allowable time. "According to sanitary regulations, it should be changed every two hours," she noted.
Despite the maintenance of disposal logs, some dishes were not replaced on time. The State Sanitary and Epidemiological Surveillance Center suspects this is related to the shift change at the 24-hour cafeteria. Samples of the food have been sent to the laboratory, and results are expected within a week.
Asanakunova also emphasized that although mashed potatoes are considered harmless, they contain milk and butter, which can become a source of microbes after the expiration date, potentially leading to mass poisoning.
After the inspection, the cafeteria was temporarily closed by the order of sanitary services and will remain closed until the source of the poisoning is identified and test results are received. Disinfection and a thorough cleaning are being conducted at the establishment, as well as health checks for all employees.
The affected individuals reported symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, fever, headaches, and severe abdominal pain. Most of them sought medical help on their own and were hospitalized.
The sanitary doctor also warned that in cases of severe food poisoning symptoms, such as high fever, vomiting, and signs of dehydration, immediate medical attention should be sought, as self-treatment can lead to serious consequences.
According to sanitary services, 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.
It should be noted that a mass poisoning related to dishes from this cafeteria occurred in Bishkek. Initially, 13 affected individuals were reported, but on March 12, their number increased to 20 after hospitalization.
During the investigation, the cafeteria located at 18 Baytik Baatyr Street was closed. Other establishments in the city continue to operate as usual. The company was fined 23,000 soms, and the epidemiological investigation is ongoing.
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