Prior to the Lunar New Year and Spring festivals, the Ministry of Health has issued a new directive to prevent foodborne illnesses and safeguard public health.
Current food safety assessment While the number of food poisoning incidents in 2025 decreased compared to the previous year, authorities emphasize that significant risks persist. Large-scale outbreaks continue to occur in industrial kitchens, catering services, and households. The primary causes identified include improper food processing and storage, non-compliance with safety regulations by certain businesses, and the consumption of flora and fauna containing natural toxins.
Key strategies for the upcoming period The Ministry of Health has instructed local regulatory bodies to focus on the following tasks:
-
Monitoring mobile services: Closely supervising on-site catering for large gatherings such as weddings, parties, and street food vendors.
-
Unannounced inspections: Prioritizing audits of industrial zones, schools, and bottled water manufacturers. Facilities failing to meet hygiene standards or lacking proper permits will face immediate suspension, with their violations publicized in mass media.
-
Specialized product management: Collaborating with the industry and trade sector to regulate homemade alcohol and prevent the distribution of untraceable products; working with the agricultural sector to warn against poisonous wild mushrooms and unfamiliar forest plants.
-
Emergency preparedness: Healthcare facilities must ensure a constant state of readiness with personnel, medication, and equipment to effectively respond to mass poisoning events.
Regulatory agencies advise the public to consume only food from transparent sources and to avoid the use of unfamiliar ingredients or expired products to ensure the safety of themselves and their families.