NEW TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Authorities ordered the temporary closure of a restaurant in New Taipei City on Wednesday (Oct. 16), following a suspected food poisoning incident.
The New Taipei City Government's Department of Health (衛生局) reported on Wednesday that after dining at the Lemongrass Gourmet Tea House Banqiao Store (檸檬草美食茶房板橋店) on Sunday, 24 patrons experienced symptoms of gastrointestinal discomfort, with 17 individuals affected.
Health officials revealed that 15 of the affected customers sought medical attention, though none required hospitalization. Authorities ordered the establishment to temporarily close, pending submission and approval of a corrective action report after improvements and a satisfactory hygiene reinspection.
During a Wednesday inspection, officials identified several hygiene issues, including unclean equipment, and uncovered trash and food waste bins. They mandated the business to rectify these problems within a specified period. Health inspectors also tested products such as ice, bubble tea, and waffles for compliance.
Should test results indicate non-compliance, the tea house must make improvements within a set timeframe or face fines ranging from NT$30,000 to NT$3 million. The health department's actions emphasize the importance of maintaining strict hygiene standards to ensure public safety and prevent future incidents.