Eleven individuals have sought medical attention for symptoms of suspected food poisoning after dining at a high-end buffet restaurant located in Kaohsiung’s Zuoying District, as reported by city health authorities on Saturday.
According to a press release from the Kaohsiung City Health Department, inspectors were dispatched to the Kaohsiung Arena branch of Hi-Lai Harbour (漢來海港) following notification from a hospital where one patient had been treated.
During their inspection at the restaurant, health officials discovered indications of cross-contamination between raw and cooked foods. They collected a total of 20 samples from various food items, including salad, oysters, sashimi, and different areas within the establishment.
Additionally, 56 samples were obtained from kitchen staff and the 11 affected individuals. The samples are currently undergoing testing to identify any potential contaminants.
All 11 patients had consumed meals at the buffet during the same two meal periods (not specified) and subsequently experienced symptoms such as diarrhea and other signs of foodborne illness. Fortunately, all individuals have been discharged from the hospital.
As a precautionary measure pending the test results, the restaurant has voluntarily decided to close its doors for thorough cleaning over the weekend (Saturday and Sunday).
City health officials intend to conduct a follow-up inspection post-cleaning. Depending on the findings, the restaurant could face fines ranging from NT$60,000 to NT$200 million (US$1,839 to US$6.13 million) under the Act Governing Food Safety and Sanitation, as highlighted by the health department.
