ByteDance's collective food poisoning incident has so far caused 60 people to show symptoms, and the supplier of the poisoned chicken is suspected to be YUN NANS

ByteDance's Singapore office was suspected of suffering from a collective food poisoning incident on July 30 (Tuesday). According to Lianhe Zaobao, several employees felt unwell after enjoying a Chinese buffet lunch in the cafeteria. By the evening of the same day, at least 60 people had symptoms of gastroenteritis, of which 57 went to the hospital for treatment.

Initially, SCDF dispatched 15 ambulances to the scene and reported that 30 people with symptoms such as abdominal pain and vomiting were taken to the hospital. Later, the number was updated to 17 ambulances and 41 people were hospitalized.

An ambulance is parked outside the Bytedance office at One Raffles Quay on July 30, 2024. (Photo: CNA Readers)

Suppliers' response

The suppliers that provided lunch that day included YUN NANS and Putian. Yunhai responded to Lianhe Zaobao's inquiry at noon on July 31 (Wednesday) that they were deeply concerned about the food poisoning incident and were working with other suppliers to help those affected. Yunhai said it would work closely with ByteDance and relevant government departments to conduct a thorough investigation, emphasizing that the health and safety of customers is its top priority.

A Putian spokesperson responded on Tuesday night that, as far as they know, the people who showed symptoms of food poisoning did not eat the food they provided. Putian said it is cooperating with the authorities and awaiting the results of the investigation.

According to reports, the chicken for the company's lunch was suspected to be supplied by Yunhai. The chicken was frozen and had a sour taste. After lunch, people began to vomit in the afternoon.

The Singapore Civil Defence Force dispatched a total of 17 ambulances and sent 47 people to the hospital for treatment. The Singapore Food Agency and the Ministry of Health are currently investigating the incident.

YUN NANS mentioned in a statement that they strictly abide by food safety regulations and hygiene codes. The company said it will do its utmost to assist in the investigation and ensure the health and safety of customers.