Health officials probe Nangang eatery after 32 fall ill

TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taipei's Department of Health (台北市政府衛生局) reported a suspected food poisoning incident at a Nangang (南港) restaurant, accumulating 32 cases by Sunday (Feb. 2) at 5 p.m.

Officials began receiving hospital reports on the evening of Jan. 30 regarding a suspected food poisoning incident linked to a dinner served on Jan. 28 at a restaurant in the Nangang. The authorities have ordered the establishment to suspend operations starting from lunch on Jan. 31.

The Department of Health demanded that the restaurant implement corrective measures by Monday or face fines of NT$60,000 to NT$200 million.

By Sunday afternoon, 32 individuals reported symptoms. An inspection on Jan. 31, conducted under the "Regulations on Good Hygiene Practice for Food" (食品良好衛生規範準則), revealed several infractions, including greasy kitchen floors and cutting boards stored on the ground.

Officials have mandated that the restaurant rectify these issues and have collected two employees and four environmental samples for further investigation. The health department's swift action underscores its commitment to public safety and adherence to hygiene standards. As the investigation continues, residents and diners await further updates on the cause of the outbreak and the restaurant's compliance with health regulations.