14 severe cases of suspected food poisoning have been reported so far, including two deaths and five people currently hospitalized in critical condition. In a Legislature interview on Thursday, Health Minister Hsueh Jui-yuan (薛瑞元) stated that, after discussions with experts, the incident was highly likely caused by Bongkrek acid contamination and testing is currently underway.
Bongkrek acid is a toxin produced by the bacterium Burkholderia gladioli pathovar cocovenenans occasionally found in fermented coconut or corn. When consumed, symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhea, urinary retention, abdominal pain, and excessive sweating as the toxin mainly targets the liver, brain, and kidneys.
FoodWorld 