Riff Valencia: A woman dies of food poisoning at Michelin-starred restaurant

The 46-year-old victim died after eating a meal at the Riff in the coastal city of the Mediterranean. Regional health authorities also identified 28 more people who became ill after visiting the restaurant, according to a statement.

The woman, who was not identified, died at home early Sunday morning. Her husband and 12-year-old son have also been addicted to food, but are currently recovering, authorities said.

The 29 victims of the epidemic had all eaten at Riff between 13 and 16 February.

Food inspectors visited the restaurant on February 18, but found no explanation for what could have contributed to the outbreak, reads the statement from the Department of Public Health.

The inspectors took samples of food used in the tasting menu, which were sent to the National Institute of Toxicology in Spain for analysis.

Bernd H. Knöller, chief conductor and owner of Riff, issued a statement in which he expressed his deep regret for the incident and claimed that he was working with the authorities to determine what had happened .

"I made the decision to definitively close the restaurant until the cause of what happened is established and we can reopen with the necessary guarantees for the safety of the staff and the staff." customers. "

Riff holds a Michelin star, a prestigious award in the restaurant sector.

"The chef, who, although he is German, sees himself as Valencian, develops innovative cuisine", reads in the Michelin guide.

"It's based on high quality, seasonal local produce to create successful culinary combinations and interesting menus."