Could One Bite Of Butter Chicken Really Kill? UK Man, 27, Tragically Succumbs

In England, a 27-year-old man, Joseph Higginson from Bury, Greater Manchester, succumbed to a severe allergic reaction after consuming just one mouthful of butter chicken curry from a takeaway.

The curry, containing nuts, triggered anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic response, to which Higginson was known to be allergic.

Butter Chicken can kill you?

Despite the curry "clearly indicating" the presence of almonds and providing correct allergy information, as per reports from the digital news portal the Mirror, Higginson, a mechanic, suffered a fatal reaction. Despite his prior ability to tolerate nut-based dishes, the single mouthful proved fatal.

The investigation conducted by the police following Higginson's demise found no fault with the takeaway. According to Higginson's family, he was vigilant about his allergies and diligently checked his food for allergens. His sister, Emily Higginson, stressed the importance of taking allergies seriously, noting that their severity can fluctuate over time.

Allergic Reaction Claims Life Despite Emergency Response

Higginson, equipped with an EpiPen, found himself in a dire situation just months after being diagnosed with allergies. Despite immediate medical intervention, including the administration of adrenaline, Higginson's condition rapidly deteriorated. At home during a family meal on December 28, 2022, he collapsed, and despite resuscitation efforts, he passed away on January 4 the following year at the Royal Bolton Hospital, as reported by India Today.

The coroner's court recorded a verdict of misadventure, highlighting the sudden and unforeseen nature of Joseph's death. Pathologist Dr. Philip Lumb confirmed that Joseph experienced an "immediate allergic reaction" upon consuming the curry, with almonds identified as the likely trigger. Authorities found no fault on the part of the takeaway and discovered no 'adulterants' in the food during their investigation.

The menu clearly stated the presence of almonds in the dish, indicating Joseph's awareness of the allergen. Devastated by his untimely death, Joseph's family honoured his wishes by donating his organs, saving the lives of others in need. Emily expressed gratitude to those involved in Joseph's care and emphasized his generous spirit, noting, "He has donated his heart as per his wishes and a kidney. We know they are alive and well and that the transplants were successful," as per media reports.