According to the National Food Agency, no violations were found in 129 samples of animal- and non-animal-origin food collected from public kindergartens in Tbilisi.

As stated in information released by the agency on social media, the National Food Agency is continuing its monitoring of kindergartens. For laboratory analysis, food samples of both animal and non-animal origin were collected from kindergartens, specifically: fruits and vegetables; dairy products (cheese, milk powder, ultra-pasteurized liquid milk, butter, sour cream); meat and meat products (beef, chicken); and cereals.

“Laboratory testing covers parameters such as heavy metals, nitrates, microbiological indicators, and pathogens (aerobic microorganisms, coliforms, Salmonella, Shigella, and coagulase-positive staphylococci).

To date, 129 food samples of animal and non-animal origin collected from kindergartens have been analyzed. The results show that all tested samples fully comply with established standards and safety norms; no violations were detected in any instance.

In connection with cases of norovirus-induced gastroenteritis among children in Tbilisi kindergartens, the National Food Agency [conducted] a comprehensive investigation. The agency’s inspection teams examined around 70 facilities (public kindergartens, a meat processing plant, and a dairy product warehouse). A total of 694 samples of various food products and drinking water were collected for laboratory analysis, with the results to be released in stages," reads the statement.

Notably, on September 18, children attending public kindergartens were admitted to hospitals showing suspected signs of intoxication. According to the National Center for Disease Control, laboratory results indicate a high probability that norovirus was the primary cause of the majority of gastroenteritis cases in the kindergartens. The Center also noted that this pathogen is the leading cause of viral gastroenteritis worldwide.

It is also worth recalling that the Investigative Service had previously launched an investigation into the suspected intoxication of the kindergarten children.