Health Ministry denies poor food quality claims
The Ministry of Health denied that the food served at the National Institute of Pediatrics (INP) is of poor quality. Videos circulated on social media showing alleged sanitary irregularities in the workers’ cafeteria. The footage includes apparently rotten food and the presence of cockroaches.
In an informational bulletin, the ministry stated that the reception of fruits, vegetables, and other supplies for the hospital’s food services is done daily, under established quality controls in accordance with current sanitary regulations.
The INP assured that it has sanitary controls and periodic fumigations in place, and that the products supplied comply with applicable regulations.
The ministry issued a response after images circulated showing food apparently in poor condition, damaged fruits, cockroaches on a wall, and accumulated water near a drain in the kitchen.
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The kitchen in the workers’ cafeteria has been under corrective maintenance since September 25. Completion is expected by October 18. During this period, the service operates temporarily with the exclusive dispatch of cold and packaged foods.
The National Institute of Pediatrics stated that the food distributed in its facilities is of quality and complies with corresponding sanitary norms. As part of its hygiene measures, it conducts periodic fumigations in the kitchen and cafeteria areas. These actions maintain adequate cleaning and safety conditions for workers and patients.
The Ministry of Health also referred to the food served to hospitalized children, stating that its preparation is done in accordance with the procedures established in the Mexican Official Standard NOM-251-SSA1-2009, which sets hygiene requirements for food, beverages, and dietary supplements.
The nutrition area staff supervises these procedures and keeps a record of each receipt of supplies. The INP informed that it maintains open institutional channels to receive complaints from workers. It assured that the complaints will be addressed without reprisals against those who present them.
