Suspected Food Poisoning at Taoyuan Bento Restaurant; Number of People Seeking Medical Treatment Rises to 61

(CNA Reporter Wu Jui-chi, Taoyuan, 14th) The Taoyuan City Department of Public Health stated that as of this afternoon, the number of people seeking medical treatment for suspected food poisoning after consuming meals from 'Ueno Yakiniku Rice - Neili Branch' has climbed to 61. In addition to ordering the business to temporarily suspend operations, samples have been collected, with results expected in 3 to 5 weeks.

The Taoyuan City Government's Department of Public Health issued a press release around 2 PM stating that as of noon on the 14th, hospitals had reported a total of 38 people showing suspected food poisoning symptoms after eating from 'Ueno Yakiniku Rice - Neili Branch'. However, by 4:30 PM, the number had risen to 61 people exhibiting symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. The public reported that most had purchased and consumed bento boxes from the shop for lunch and dinner on the 13th.

The Department of Health said that upon receiving the report, it activated its food poisoning investigation mechanism, dispatched personnel for an inspection, and simultaneously ordered the business to suspend operations. Inspectors have conducted a comprehensive check of the shop's food preparation processes, operational environment hygiene, personnel hygiene management, and ingredient storage conditions. They also collected samples of high-risk ingredients and environmental swabs for testing. The relevant testing process will take at least 3 to 5 weeks, and the Department of Health will complete it as soon as possible.

The Department of Health stated that if the investigation finds the operator violated the 'Good Hygiene Practices (GHP) for Food,' they will be ordered to make improvements within a time limit. If they fail to do so by the deadline, they will be fined between NT$60,000 and NT$200 million in accordance with the 'Act Governing Food Safety and Sanitation.' If the test results confirm it to be a food poisoning case, it will be transferred to the Taoyuan District Prosecutors Office for investigation for violating the 'Food Safety Act.'

The Department of Health reminds citizens that if they consumed food from 'Ueno Yakiniku Rice - Neili Branch' on the 13th and are experiencing gastrointestinal discomfort or other suspected symptoms, they should seek medical attention as soon as possible and proactively inform them of their dietary history to facilitate reporting by medical institutions. They can also report to the Department of Health. For consumer disputes, the public can call the 1950 Consumer Service Center for assistance. (Editor: Lee Heng-shan) 1150414