A shocking incident at a Perth restaurant has resulted in a hefty fine and a stark reminder of the importance of food safety. In June 2024, two young sisters, Hannah and Olivia Lemin, unknowingly consumed insect repellent instead of cranberry juice, leading to a terrifying experience for the entire family.
The incident occurred at Miky's Italian Fusion restaurant in the Perth suburb of Crawley. The Lemin family, including parents Marcus and Michele, were enjoying dinner when the girls complained about the strange taste of their cranberry juice. Little did they know, it was citronella, a substance that would soon reveal its true nature.
The girls' parents, in a moment of horror, discovered the truth when they realized the drink was not the usual cranberry juice. The bartender had mistakenly served them a pink-colored citronella torch and lamp oil solution. This incident not only caused the girls to fall ill but also sparked a Department of Health investigation.
The former owner of the restaurant, Michele Angiuli, faced severe consequences. In the Perth Magistrates Court, Angiuli was found guilty of selling unsafe food and failing to exercise due diligence. Magistrate Donna Webb emphasized the restaurant's lack of proper management and compliance, particularly regarding food safety certifications for staff.
The Lemin family's experience was a harrowing one. The girls' stomachs were burning, their fingers and hands tingling, and they suffered from headaches. The family rushed to the hospitals, and the children and Ms. Lemin were observed for several hours before being discharged. Ms. Lemin expressed relief that the incident did not involve younger children, as she couldn't imagine the potential consequences.
Speaking after the court proceedings, Mr. Lemin emphasized the importance of the fine in sending a strong message to the hospitality industry. He hoped it would drive stricter standards and accountability, ensuring that business owners understand their responsibilities. Mr. Angiuli, however, declined to comment on the matter.
This incident serves as a stark reminder that food safety is paramount, and the consequences of negligence can be severe. It highlights the need for thorough training, strict adherence to regulations, and a deep commitment to customer well-being in the hospitality sector.
