TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — A food poisoning incident was reported in Taichung’s West District on Thursday.
At least 13 people reported nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting after eating lunch at a popular French restaurant, with 10 people seeking medical attention at nearby hospitals. The Taichung Office of Food and Drug Safety promptly launched an investigation, reported UDN.
Those who sought treatment were diagnosed with acute gastroenteritis. It was likely caused by contaminated ingredients used by the restaurant.
The city collected food samples from the kitchen and performed a spot inspection. Results from the samples will be reported within two weeks, per UDN.
If food contamination is confirmed the restaurant may face fines between NT$60,000 and NT$200,000, in accordance with the Food Safety Act. If the restaurant fails to improve standards within the next two weeks, it may be ordered to close.
Taichung recently saw another major case of food poisoning in July involving a roast duck restaurant. In that incident, over 300 people had food poisoning.
In a national survey conducted in May, over 40% of Taiwanese said they were dissatisfied with the government’s oversight of food safety standards.
Dining and Cooking