Share where risky oysters are from, authorities urged after food poisoning cases

South China Morning PostEN 1 min read 100% complete by Ng Kang-chung,Theodora YuFebruary 14, 2026 at 03:50 AM

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Hong Kong restaurant operators are requesting authorities to specify the origins of risky raw oysters after a recent surge in norovirus-related food poisoning cases between February 1-12. This request comes as consumer wariness increases, impacting restaurant business ahead of the Lunar New Year. Restaurants report diners are now favoring European oysters over Asian imports, particularly those from Korea, which were linked to 13 of the 37 reported cases. While some cases were linked to Korean oysters, the Centre for Food Safety reported that affected individuals consumed oysters from various regions, including Spain, France, Japan, and Ireland. Restaurant owners want clear information to avoid being unfairly associated with problematic sources and allow consumers to make informed choices.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

France 40% Asia 40% Ireland 40% Spain 40% Japan 40% Yuen Long 40% South China Morning Post 50% European markets 50% Wilson Lau 60% Centre for Food Safety 60% South Korea ×270% Hong Kong ×290%

Keywords

food poisoning 100% raw oysters 90% oyster origins 80% restaurant operators 70% lunar new year 60% norovirus 60% hong kong 50% food safety 50% korean imports 40%