Laboratory investigation into mass food poisoning at Limassol wedding

Following a mass food poisoning incident at a wedding reception in Limassol on Sunday, June 7, 2026, health authorities confirmed the presence of salmonella in chicken with cream sauce. Further tests by the State General Laboratory identified Bacillus cereus in rice with vermicelli and mushroom penne. According to Herodotos Herodotou, director of the Health Services, 74 individuals reported symptoms, with 21 hospitalizations recorded across Limassol, Paphos, and Nicosia. The catering company responsible has been suspended pending further investigations, which include interviews with affected guests. Authorities are also examining reports of a similar incident occurring at another wedding the previous Saturday serviced by the same company. Officials have urged any additional affected persons to come forward to assist in the final report, as the possibility of other toxin-producing bacteria is still being investigated.