Unlicensed Catering Business Shut Down Following Food Poisoning Incident
ROCK ISLAND, Ill. — An unlicensed home-based catering business has been ordered to cease operations after a foodborne illness outbreak linked to a dinner for a local high school football team.
The Rock Island Health Department was informed of the outbreak following a team dinner held on September 24 in the school cafeteria. It was reported that 75 individuals were served a meal that included fajita chicken, seasoned taco beef, cheese, flour taco shells, cheesy pepper beans, cilantro corn rice, and Pico de Gallo salsa.
At least 45 attendees, including players, coaches, and parents, fell ill after the event, prompting the postponement of a homecoming football game. Symptoms reported included vomiting and diarrhea, although no one required hospitalization; one player did visit a doctor, and most symptoms subsided within 24 hours.
Health officials conducted an investigation and discovered that the catering service, known as Sunshine and Spice, was unlicensed and lacked food-safety certification. The owner, Joshua Harris, stated that all ingredients were sourced from local retailers and assured that the food was fully cooked before serving.
In a statement, Harris expressed his apologies and emphasized that they have operated ethically in the past. He assured the public that they are cooperating with the health department’s investigation, which is ongoing as test results are pending from the food samples collected.
Key Points:
- Catering Service: Sunshine and Spice, unlicensed.
- Affected Individuals: 75 served, 45 reported symptoms.
- Symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhea; one medical visit, no hospitalizations.
- Response: Business ordered to shut down, pending proper certification.
- Investigation: Active investigation into food safety conducted.
This incident raises important concerns regarding food safety practices and the regulation of catering businesses in the area.
