A woman dies and 28 people vomit after eating at a prestigious Spanish restaurant

The woman had dined at Valencia's RiFF restaurant with her husband and 12-year-old son, who was also suffering from diarrhea and vomiting after eating.

The establishment closed down as a result of what happened and the health authorities opened an investigation to determine the cause of the intoxication.

RiFF, which, according to the Michelin Guide, is characterized by its "innovative cuisine", has apologized to its customers.

The authorities contacted 75 people who had eaten at the restaurant between 13 and 16 February and found that a total of 29 of them had been poisoned, including three families.

The 46-year-old deceased woman died in the early hours of Sunday after eating out on Saturday night.

Investigation

A spokesman for the regional health ministry in Valencia told the BBC that food health officials had inspected the facility on Monday but had failed to detect an obvious cause.

Samples of some dishes served in the tasting menu were sent to the National Institute of Toxicology, the spokesman added.

Some reports had indicated that intoxication could come from a type of fungus, but officials told local media that they had to wait for test results before reporting a particular ingredient.

The owner and chef of the restaurant, Bernd Knöller, said in a statement that he was working with health authorities to clarify the facts.

"Regardless of what might have caused this situation, I wish to express my deep regret for what has happened and hope that everything will be clarified quickly," added the chief.

"I made the decision to close the restaurant until the causes of what happened are established."

BBC.