Full Breakdown
Hong Kong Health Authorities Warn Against Raw Oysters Amid Norovirus Outbreak
2/13/2026, 1:49:15 AM
Surge in Food Poisoning Cases
Hong Kong health authorities have issued a warning to the public to avoid consuming raw oysters following a significant increase in norovirus-related food poisoning cases. The Centre for Health Protection reported that seven individuals from two groups experienced symptoms such as diarrhoea, abdominal pain, vomiting, and fever after dining at the O Delice! French bistro chain in Tsim Sha Tsui on January 31 and February 1. The affected individuals, aged between 24 and 45, reported symptoms 28 to 36 hours post-consumption. While three sought medical advice, none required hospitalization, and all are currently in stable condition.
Investigations and Company Suspensions
Investigations revealed that the oysters consumed were supplied by Jeton International Food and 88 Investment Holdings Limited. Following these incidents, both companies were ordered to suspend the sale and supply of raw oysters on February 6. Additionally, another outlet of the O Delice! chain at New Town Plaza in Sha Tin was implicated in similar cases where four diners fell ill, one of whom was hospitalized with a confirmed norovirus infection.
The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department's Centre for Food Safety (CFS) has also linked 21 suspected food poisoning cases to oysters supplied by Seojun Mulsan Co Ltd, a South Korean firm. On February 5, the CFS instructed the food trade to halt the import and sale of raw oysters from this company as a precautionary measure.
Broader Impact on the Food Industry
The rise in food poisoning cases has prompted immediate actions within the food industry. Notably, the Mandarin Oriental hotel in Hong Kong reported that eight diners fell ill after consuming seafood, including raw oysters, salmon sashimi, and crab legs, between January 31 and February 2. While four of the affected individuals sought medical attention, none required hospitalization. The Centre for Health Protection noted that food poisoning cases have surged from an average of one per week in late December to four per week in January, with 30 cases recorded since February.
Official Statements & Responses
Edwin Tsui Lok-kin, controller of the Centre for Health Protection, highlighted the alarming increase in food poisoning incidents, emphasizing the need for public caution regarding raw seafood consumption. The CFS has taken proactive measures to ensure food safety by suspending the sale of implicated products and conducting thorough investigations.
Criticism & Opposition
Some members of the public have expressed concerns regarding the safety protocols in place at restaurants and food suppliers, questioning the effectiveness of current regulations in preventing foodborne illnesses. Critics argue that more stringent measures should be implemented to protect consumers from potential health risks associated with raw seafood.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the Centre for Health Protection has confirmed a rise in food poisoning cases linked to raw oysters, discrepancies exist regarding the total number of affected individuals and the specific sources of contamination. Ongoing investigations aim to clarify these details and ensure accountability within the food supply chain.
Verbatim Quotes
“Centre controller Edwin Tsui Lok-kin said food poisoning cases had risen sharply, from a weekly average of one in late December to four per week in January.” — Edwin Tsui Lok-kin, Controller, Centre for Health Protection
“For the sake of prudence, the CFS instructed the trade to stop the import and sale in Hong Kong of raw oysters supplied by this company on February 5,” — Food and Environmental Hygiene Department, Centre for Food Safety
“Officials suspect the illnesses may be linked to raw food.” — Centre for Health Protection
