Hospitalizations in Ho Chi Minh City ‘banh mi’ food poisoning scandal rise to nearly 300

The outbreak began last Thursday when patients developed food poisoning symptoms after consuming ‘banh mi’ from two outlets of the 'Banh Mi Coc Co B.' brand — one on Nguyen Thai Son Street in Hanh Thong Ward and the other on Le Quang Dinh Street in Binh Loi Trung Ward.

By 4:00 pm on Tuesday, 299 people had sought medical attention at 14 hospitals across the city, including Military Hospital 175, Tam Anh General Hospital, and Gia Dinh People’s Hospital, the municipal Department of Health reported.

The figure marked an increase of 64 cases from the 235 recorded as of 8:00 am on Monday.

Most patients experienced nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, fever, and fatigue, with symptoms ranging from mild to severe.

Except for a few severe cases requiring continued care, most patients were reported to be in stable condition and have been discharged, while those with milder symptoms were treated at home.

The Ho Chi Minh City Food Safety Department has suspended the shop’s operations and coordinated with local authorities to inspect both outlets, collecting food and environmental samples for testing.

Laboratory tests revealed elevated white blood cell counts and C-reactive protein levels in the patients, while three samples tested positive for Salmonella and coagulase-negative Staphylococcus as of Tuesday afternoon, according to Nguoi Lao Dong (Laborer) newspaper.

Inspectors found that the Nguyen Thai Son outlet prepared its own chicken, butter, and pickled vegetables while sourcing other ingredients such as ‘cha lua’ (Vietnamese pork roll), cold cuts, pâté, eggs, and vegetables from multiple suppliers, some without invoices.

The Le Quang Dinh outlet, a street-side cart, had already closed before inspection.

Investigators confirmed that the shop holds a valid business registration license issued in 2020 and that its owner possesses a Certificate of Food Safety Knowledge.

The department has reported the outbreak to the municipal administration and the Ministry of Health, directing hospitals to follow food poisoning treatment protocols, including proper admission, triage, and care.

It also recommended that the city government direct relevant agencies to support the ongoing investigation and coordinate epidemiological data collection.

On Monday, the ministry’s Food Safety Department sent an official request to the municipal food safety authorities, urging a thorough investigation and strict handling of the mass poisoning.

The agency also asked hospitals to prioritize patient care, trace food origins, test samples, and penalize violations if found.

'Banh Mi Coc Co B.' is a well-known local brand that has operated for more than 30 years and has built a strong customer base.