Raigmore Hospital food tasters taken ill

Several workers took ill following a hospital food tasting session, a health board has confirmed.

Staff at Raigmore Hospital in Inverness complained of irritation to their eyes and one of swelling to their face.

NHS Highland said about eight staff attended accident and emergency on 20 April but they were not kept in and have returned to work.

The health board said the symptoms they experienced suggested that the cause was not food-related.

The food in the taster session was not given to patients.

Supplier Apetito said it was working closely with the hospital and Highland Council to identify the trigger for the irritation.

The food in the taster session was being checked for its suitability for patients who have difficulty swallowing.

In a statement, NHS Highland said: "It is not yet clear what has caused this but we, along with our food supplier, are investigating thoroughly.

"It is believed to be a one-off incident as no-one else has reported having symptoms.

"Due to the symptoms displayed by staff we do not believe it to be food-related."

Public health bodies and the Food Standards Agency have been notified.

Raigmore's 60 catering department staff provide 2,500 meals a day and serve patients, hospital employees and visitors.