Hong Kong Investigates Food Poisoning on Cathay Pacific Flights

HONG KONG — Health authorities in Hong Kong have expanded an investigation into food poisoning cases linked to in-flight meals served on two Cathay Pacific flights from Nepal. The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) reported 36 passengers fell ill after arriving in Hong Kong earlier this week.

The CHP identified two clusters of food poisoning cases involving passengers on flights CX640 and another inbound flight from Kathmandu. Symptoms included vomiting, nausea, and fever, with 16 individuals affected in the first cluster and 20 in the second. The CHP suspects the illnesses are linked to in-flight meals, particularly a beetroot salad served on both flights.

“It is believed that there is an epidemiological link between the two cases,” the CHP said in a statement. The beetroot salad, which requires manual preparation and is served without reheating, has been suspended as a precaution.

Cathay Pacific has denied any lapses in food safety, stating that all meals were stored at appropriate temperatures and prepared under strict hygiene standards. “Should any food contamination be found to originate from the airline’s in-flight meals, we will report the findings truthfully and transparently and take all necessary corrective actions,” the airline said in a statement.

The CHP has collected food samples from the airline for further testing. Cathay Pacific emphasized its commitment to passenger safety, adding, “The safety and well-being of our people and customers guide every decision we make. We sincerely apologise to the affected customers for any inconvenience caused.”

This incident comes as Cathay Pacific announced a new collaboration, though details remain undisclosed. The airline has pledged to cooperate fully with authorities and provide support to affected passengers.