Patients suffering from food poisoning receiving treatment at Lạc Việt Friendship Hospital, Vĩnh Yên City. — VNA/VNS Photo Hoàng Hùng

VĨNH PHÚC — The Ministry of Health (MoH) has ordered the immediate closure of the kitchen at Shinwon Ebenezer Vietnam Limited Company in Vĩnh Phúc Province after 350 employees were hospitalised with suspected food poisoning.

In a letter sent to the provincial Department of Health about the incident at the Khai Quang Industrial Park, Vĩnh Yên City, the ministry urged local health authorities to prioritise the treatment of those who had fallen ill and prevent further health complications.

An investigation is underway into the suspected food poisoning cases, with samples collected for testing.

MoH has asked the Vĩnh Phúc Department of Health to step up inspections and ramp up its guidance given to kitchens and food service establishments on upholding standards of food safety and hygiene, along with stressing the importance of public awareness around food safety.

On Tuesday, the company's employees fell ill after consuming lunch which included stir-fried chicken with lemongrass and chili, cauliflower, pickled vegetables and vegetable soup.

Shinwon Ebenezer Vietnam Limited Company, which is owned by Korean investors, specialises in textile exports and employs over 3,000 workers. — VNS