TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Premier Chen Chien-jen sought to reassure the public Monday (April 1) following a food poisoning scare at a local restaurant, emphasizing that the incident was isolated and there was no need for widespread concern. The incident, involving Bongkrek acid, was confined to a single period at the Polam Kopitiam restaurant.
Despite an initial delay of two to three days in the investigation, Chen said the reporting process had been smooth, with local and central government agencies and investigative units working together to identify the possible source of contamination.
Chen stressed that the government will enhance its food poisoning reporting system and increase the rigor of investigations. This includes strengthening specimen collection and testing techniques by both central and local governments to ensure food safety.
Chen thanked frontline doctors for their vigilance. Upon identifying food poisoning cases, they immediately inquire about possible sources and report to the government, playing a crucial role in tracking the development of the incident.
Chen said the government would continue to remind all frontline doctors to ask patients about what they ate and where in the event of food poisoning cases and to promptly report to local and central governments to help identify possible sources of contamination.