Child dies after eating castor seeds in Maharashtra, seven hospitalized

A toddler from Maharashtra suffered fatal poisoning after ingesting castor (arandi) seeds, according to local health officials. The child was taken to a nearby medical facility where she could not be revived. Six other children who had also consumed the seeds were admitted to the same or nearby hospitals for observation and treatment. Health authorities have warned parents about the dangers of accidental ingestion of castor seeds, which contain toxic compounds that can cause severe gastrointestinal and systemic effects. The incident has prompted local officials to launch an awareness drive in schools and communities to prevent similar cases.

The affected children are being monitored for symptoms such as vomiting, abdominal pain, and dehydration. Medical teams are providing supportive care, including intravenous fluids and anti‑emetic medication, while awaiting further laboratory confirmation of toxin levels. Parents have been advised to keep all potentially hazardous seeds and nuts out of reach of children.

The Maharashtra health department is coordinating with local police to investigate the source of the seeds and to ensure that no commercial products contain unsafe quantities of castor seed material. The department plans to issue a public advisory and distribute informational pamphlets in regional languages to educate caregivers about the risks associated with certain traditional foods and seeds.