Four sentenced in Taiwan after deadly outbreak

A batch of rice noodles was left unrefrigerated for more than 63 hours before serving.

Cases and health response

Four people have been sentenced in Taiwan in relation to a fatal food poisoning outbreak that occurred in 2024.

The outbreak caused 33 illnesses and six deaths in March 2024. The rare toxin, Bongkrekic acid, is produced by the bacterium Burkholderia gladioli pathovar cocovenenans.

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Health investigation

In 2025, the Taipei District Prosecutors Office said five people had been charged as part of an investigation into the Bongkrekic acid incident at the Polam Kopitiam restaurant.