Food poisoning bacteria were detected at some malatang franchise locations operating in Korea.
The Korea Consumer Agency (KCA) said on Apr. 13 that it inspected hygiene conditions at 20 major domestic malatang franchise locations and found food poisoning bacteria at three. The investigation covered 40 products in total, including malatang and peanut sauce.
At Chunli Malatang's Myeong-dong flagship, Staphylococcus aureus and Listeria were detected in the malatang and peanut sauce, respectively. Escherichia coli and Listeria were also found in the peanut sauce at Xiangci Mala (Ajou University directly managed store) and Shaolin Mala (Gajaeul location).
The food poisoning bacteria detected this time are known to cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain. In particular, Listeria can cause miscarriage and stillbirth in pregnant women, requiring caution.
The Korea Consumer Agency (KCA) recommended corrective action to the businesses that manufactured and sold the products in which food poisoning bacteria were detected, including discarding inventory and strengthening hygiene management. It also asked relevant agencies to conduct inspections of malatang vendors.
Separately from the survey, relevant agencies such as district offices, which have the authority to take administrative action, can collect samples and, if problems are confirmed, impose fines, business suspensions and other penalties on the businesses.
An official at the Korea Consumer Agency (KCA) said, "If damage occurs from the food in question, apply for counseling through the 1372 Consumer Counseling Center or Consumer24," adding, "Consume delivered or takeout prepared foods as soon as possible, and if storing them, refrigerate and reheat thoroughly before eating."