Rabat – Zemouri Hospital in Kenitra received 29 people on Monday evening after they showed symptoms of severe food poisoning.
The group had reportedly eaten sandwiches sold at a weekly market near the town of Souk El Arbaa, located not far from Kenitra.
Yassine El Haffiani, the director of Zemouri Hospital, told SNRT News that affected individuals began experiencing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain shortly after consuming the food.
They were first taken to the local hospital in Souk El Arbaa for initial treatment and then transferred to Zemouri Hospital for further care.
Most of the patients responded well to treatment and were discharged on Tuesday, just a day after the incident. However, eight people remain under medical observation. They are expected to leave the hospital on Wednesday, El Haffiani added.
This incident has raised concerns about food safety, especially during the summer months when foodborne illnesses tend to increase. Warmer temperatures create the perfect conditions for bacteria to grow in improperly stored or cooked food.
In markets, food carts, and small eateries, refrigeration and hygiene standards are not always respected, which can lead to serious health risks for consumers.
Food poisoning is especially common during summer, when people travel more, eat outside, and buy meals on the go from street vendors or open markets. The heat speeds up food spoilage, and if food is not preserved correctly, it can become dangerous in a matter of hours.
Morocco has recently been experiencing a major heatwave, with temperatures climbing to unusually high levels in many parts of the country. This increases the risk of food poisoning.
Authorities are expected to investigate the source of the contaminated sandwiches.
