On February 26, 2025, the Centre for Food Safety of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region reported the detection of Norovirus in various varieties of kimchi. This incident falls under the category of bio-contaminants and is classified as an other incident. Norovirus is known for causing gastrointestinal illness and can be transmitted through contaminated food.
The affected products include multiple types of kimchi, a popular fermented dish in many cultures. The source of this contamination has not been specified, but the incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding food safety and the potential presence of harmful microorganisms in food products.
Consumers are advised to be aware of the situation and to stay informed through updates from health and food safety authorities. The Centre for Food Safety is actively monitoring the situation and conducting further investigations to ensure public health and safety.