In a shocking incident reported by Liberty Times on Sunday (Nov 26), diners at a popular hotpot restaurant in Taiwan had an unexpected visitor—a rodent that fell from the ceiling, almost landing in their hotpot.
Diner’s Shocking Experience
Imagine enjoying a hotpot meal with friends when suddenly, a sizable rodent plummets from the ceiling, landing perilously close to your bubbling broth.
This was the harrowing experience shared by a diner on the I am Banqio Resident Facebook group. The shock was palpable as the diners, mid-bite, leapt out of their seats in terror.
The eyewitness account describes the chaos and the immediate decision to abandon their meals and exit the restaurant.
Restaurant’s Response
The parent company, Chien Tu, issued a swift apology, attributing the incident to the rodent seeking refuge from fumigation on the building’s first floor.
They assured the public of a two-day closure for thorough cleaning and disinfection of the affected area. This response aimed at mitigating concerns about hygiene and safety within their establishment.
Health Inspection Findings
However, Taiwanese health authorities painted a different picture during their inspection. They identified lapses in hygiene measures at the back door of the kitchen and noted staff negligence regarding closed rubbish bins. These findings could potentially lead to legal consequences for the restaurant.
The restaurant now faces the specter of fines ranging from NT$60,000 to NT$200 million if they fail to meet health standards upon re-inspection. This financial consequence underscores the gravity of lapses in maintaining cleanliness and adhering to health regulations.
Unsurprisingly, the incident ignited a flurry of reactions on social media. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of rigorous hygiene standards in the food industry. From regular pest control measures to diligent staff training, establishments must prioritize cleanliness to ensure the safety and satisfaction of their patrons.