On 9/4, the Dak Lak Department of Health reported findings from the Tay Nguyen Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology. Out of 10 patient samples from individuals affected by food poisoning, five tested positive for salmonella. Food sample analysis further identified salmonella in two samples (vegetables and ham), while one vegetable sample was contaminated with escherichia coli (e.coli).

Authorities confirmed that the food poisoning affecting 86 people stemmed from consuming banh mi purchased at the Quoc Hung shop in Ea Drang commune, which was contaminated with pathogenic microorganisms.

On 27/3, the Quoc Hung shop sold approximately 300 banh mi. The first cases of food poisoning emerged that evening, with individuals experiencing symptoms including fever, abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. More people were hospitalized in the subsequent days.

All patients have since recovered.

The Ea Drang Commune People's Committee has recommended that the Provincial People's Committee impose an administrative fine of 80 million VND on the Quoc Hung banh mi business for food safety violations.

Salmonella and e.coli are primary culprits behind food poisoning and severe intestinal infections, frequently implicated in large-scale outbreaks across Vietnam linked to unsanitary food. Common symptoms include diarrhea, fever, and abdominal pain.

Southern provinces have recently reported numerous food poisoning incidents after banh mi consumption, predominantly attributed to these two bacterial strains.

Tran Hoa