On May 23 in Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, a parent visiting the canteen of the Yao Bei Experimental Primary School in Yuyao City discovered a disturbing scene while accompanying students for lunch.

Upon entering the kitchen area, the parent found live, white maggots writhing densely around the meat grinder attachment and filmed the incident, which quickly went viral online.

Some parents reported that the meat grinder in question had been used that day to prepare minced meat for steamed egg dishes. Following the meal, a number of students complained of stomach pain.

An on-site investigation by market supervision authorities confirmed that the equipment had not been properly or promptly cleaned, resulting in meat residue decomposing and attracting maggots.

In response, the local government formed a joint investigation team and took disciplinary actions: the deputy director of the municipal education bureau and the head of the local market supervision office were suspended for inspection; the school principal was also suspended, while the vice principal in charge and the head of the canteen were dismissed. The contaminated equipment has been sealed off, and a full disinfection of the canteen is underway.