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A type of food poisoning named ‘Fried Rice Syndrome’ has yet again caught the attention of netizens. It all started when a TikToker recently shared a video about a man who died after eating unrefrigerated 5-day-old leftover pasta.
According to various reports, the term Fried Rice Syndrome was coined after its early cases linked to cooked unrefrigerated rice being used to make fried rice dishes at restaurants were first documented. Interestingly, its narration dates back to when a 20-year-old died after eating 5-day-old leftover pasta in 2008. Meanwhile, Fried Rice Syndrome is not just trending on various social networking sites but it has sparked a major fright among social media buffs as it is not uncommon for people to consume leftover food.
Origin Of Fried Rice Syndrome:
Fried Rice Syndrome is a type of food poisoning caused by the bacteria Bacillus cereus, which is commonly present in the environment. This common bacterium causes problems if present in certain food items that are cooked but kept unrefrigerated over a period of time. It can affect all types of food items especially starchy carbohydrate-rich foods like pasta, rice, and bread.
Fried Rice Syndrome Consequences:
The symptoms can range from diarrhoea to vomiting. It is not particularly fatal as the illness usually resolves within a few days given the right treatment. In severe cases, this bacterium can cause intestinal infection, leading to acute liver failure and even death. However, children and those with underlying conditions need serious medical attention.
How To Combat Fried Rice Syndrome?
It is advised to refrigerate food within two hours of cooking, as per the USDA. If one suspects that any food item has not been properly stored, they should refrain from eating it and should immediately discard it.
Treatments Related To Fried Rice Syndrome
In healthy people, the illness usually resolves on its own within a few days with proper hydration and adequate rest. In severe cases, patients may need intravenous fluids to maintain hydration. Only those with underlying illnesses, children, or people who are immunocompromised develop serious medical issues.
According to Today report, in the case of a 20-year-old who died after eating leftover pasta, it is speculated that the longer duration of 5 days allowed the bacteria to grow at extremely high numbers and produce levels of toxins that proved fatal.
