KAOHSIUNG (TVBS News) — A popular ramen restaurant in Kaohsiung (高雄) suspended operations on Wednesday (Dec. 18) following a suspected food poisoning outbreak affecting at least eight or nine customers. The Department of Health, Kaohsiung City Government (高雄市衛生局), sent inspectors to ensure the establishment undergoes thorough cleaning and disinfection.
A university student from Pingtung (屏東) reported online that he experienced severe stomach pain and made seven trips to the restroom after dining at the ramen shop two nights ago. Other online reviews corroborated his account, with several patrons experiencing similar symptoms of stomach pain and diarrhea after eating there on the same evening.
The department received hospital reports on Monday and Tuesday about three individuals who felt unwell after dining last Sunday and this Monday. Inspectors visited the restaurant promptly to check for compliance with good hygiene practices. Although the restaurant has product liability insurance, inspectors found several deficiencies, including a lack of temperature records, employee health checks, and handwashing signs. Authorities have demanded these issues be rectified by tomorrow.
To prevent further risk, the Health Bureau invoked the "Act Governing Food Safety and Sanitation" (食安法), mandating a one-day closure for cleaning and disinfection. Failure to comply could result in fines ranging from NT$60,000 to NT$200 million under the act.
