At least nine children have died of suspect food poisoning after consuming a free meal at a government-run school in eastern India, news reports said Tuesday.

Another 40 children between the ages of 8 and 12 had to be admitted to hospitals in Bihar state, broadcaster NDTV reported. At least 10 of them were in critical condition.

All of the victims so far were under the age of 10.

Officials say adulterated ingredients, most likely contaminated oil, may have caused the food poisoning.

The Bihar government has ordered a probe into the incident and forensic teams have been rushed to the site to conduct an investigation.

The free mid-day meal scheme was introduced by the government to promote primary education by providing an incentive for poor parents to send their children to school.

But there are few checks on the quality of the food, most of which is catered by private contractors who often use sub-standard ingredients.

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