KEELUNG (TVBS News) — Taiwan health authorities ordered a Keelung (基隆) restaurant to cease operations on Wednesday (Jan. 22) after a suspected food poisoning incident sickened seven patrons. The health bureau reported that the investigation revealed all affected individuals consumed Caesar salad, prompting sample testing and a temporary shutdown until the restaurant passes a reinspection.
The bureau received reports on Monday from eight individuals who dined at the restaurant last Saturday. Seven people experienced gastrointestinal discomfort, with three needing emergency care last Sunday in Keelung and Taipei (台北). Inspectors visited the restaurant, collecting samples from the environment, staff, and patrons to identify the contamination source.
Officials found the restaurant violated several food hygiene standards, including improper labeling and packaging of bulk ingredients. They issued a notice for corrective action and warned of fines if the restaurant failed a follow-up inspection. The bureau received additional complaints from two more patrons who dined at the same establishment over the weekend, and later sought medical attention for similar symptoms.
After the inspection, the restaurant voluntarily closed pending reinspection. However, due to new cases, Keelung Department of Health Director Chang Shian-cheng (張賢政) stated that the number of related medical cases has reached seven. He said that to prevent further spread, we ordered the restaurant to halt operations until we complete the investigation and they pass reinspection.
