A Cuban woman, known on TikTok as @saylinpazos, reported that she ended up in the hospital following a meal at a Cuban restaurant in Orlando, Florida.
In a video shared from a hospital bed, she cautioned her followers:
"This happened because I went to a Cuban restaurant that was heavily promoted around here, and I ended up with food poisoning. When you plan to visit a Cuban restaurant, make sure to do your research and don't just rely on promotions you see."
The video shows Saylin lying in a hospital bed, visibly unwell, as she warns others about the potential risks of blindly trusting establishments advertised on social media.
Her post sparked numerous supportive and concerned comments. Some users suggested legal action: "That sounds like grounds for a lawsuit," wrote one. Another commented, "Maybe you're allergic to something. Don't worry, everything will be alright." A different user added, "This just confirms that I should keep cooking at home."
Others pointed out that food poisoning can happen at any restaurant, not just Cuban ones: "I don't think it's all Cuban restaurants; it could happen anywhere. Hope you recover soon."
So far, Saylin has not disclosed the name of the restaurant involved or whether she has filed a formal complaint.
Her experience brings to light ongoing concerns about food safety in Latin food establishments across the United States, particularly in cities with significant Cuban populations like Orlando. Here, the competition and social media promotions are increasingly fierce.
Food Safety Concerns in Cuban Restaurants
What should diners do to ensure safety when eating out?
Diners should research restaurants ahead of time, read reviews, and pay attention to health inspection ratings. It’s also a good idea to ask about ingredients if you have any allergies.
Can food poisoning occur even at highly rated restaurants?
Yes, food poisoning can happen at any restaurant, regardless of its rating. It can result from various factors, including food handling practices and ingredient quality.