Taipei, Taiwan – Authorities in Taipei have placed a ban on the manager and chef of Polam Kopitiam, a Malaysian restaurant chain, from leaving Taiwan amidst suspicions of their involvement in a mass food poisoning incident. This decision comes in the wake of a devastating outbreak that led to the death of two individuals and left dozens more sick after consuming food at the restaurant.
An investigation is currently underway to determine the cause of the food poisoning outbreak. Autopsies revealed the presence of bongkrekic acid in one of the deceased customers, marking the first instance of this respiratory toxin being identified in Taiwan. Testing continues to assess specimens collected from affected individuals, with prosecutors poised to reach a verdict following a thorough examination of all evidence.
Experts have pinpointed bongkrekic acid as the probable culprit behind the food poisoning outbreak. Ministry of Health and Welfare data indicates that 30 individuals fell ill after dining at the Polam Kopitiam branch in the Xinyi district between March 19 and March 24. Out of the victims tested, 22 showed traces of bongkrekic acid, while eight others are still undergoing testing for the toxin. As a result, two fatalities have occurred, with six individuals still hospitalized – four of whom are in critical condition.
Prosecutors are probing into whether the presence of bongkrekic acid was a deliberate act or if it stemmed from endogenous toxins in the food ingredients. Hsueh Jui-yuan, Minister of Health and Welfare, underscored the distinct types of food poisoning and emphasized the need for a comprehensive investigation to determine the origin of the toxin. Local health officials have reinforced their response protocols, particularly in light of the rapid progression of symptoms observed in affected individuals following their visit to the restaurant.
In response to mounting concerns, authorities have imposed restrictions on the restaurant’s legal representative, branch manager, and chef, barring them from leaving the country amid suspicions of their involvement in the food poisoning incident. Moving forward, a concerted effort is underway to trace the activities of affected individuals to ascertain whether they were exposed to the toxin while dining at Polam Kopitiam. The investigation remains ongoing, with a focus on gathering additional evidence to bring clarity to the situation.