As the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is using many tactics to subvert the government, Taiwanese need to be aware of the possibility that it is also trying to sow confusion among the public and cause dissatisfaction with the ruling party.
However, as this is not the eve of a major war, the CCP is unlikely to touch Taiwan’s key infrastructure, so as not to affect its “united front” work.
Food poisoning is more complicated, and a recent incident at a Polam Kopitiam restaurant is perhaps Taiwan’s most bizarre case for some time.
If the teahouse’s food poisoning outbreak was caused by the deadly toxin bongkrek acid from expired kway teow, or rice noodles, it is strange that it has taken so long to happen. After all, rice noodles are a common dish in Taiwan. Oddly, the toxin was detected on the hands and in the feces of a substitute chef, who was actually in good health. The case is still under investigation.
The CCP has been studying the manufacture, dissemination and prevention of viruses to prepare for biochemical warfare, and the world must be vigilant. Australia was economically sanctioned by China for calling countries to support an independent investigation of the COVID-19 pandemic outside the WHO system. Now that China is gradually lifting the economic sanctions, it is blaming the trade war while trying to cover up its failings. Has the ruling party in Australia forgotten about this since it came to power?
Meanwhile, a series of food poisoning cases have been reported at Korean and hot pot restaurants belonging to the Wang Prime Group and the Bafang Yunji International Co restaurant chain. These and Polam Kopitiam are popular restaurant chains in Taiwan, and food poisoning cases seldom arise independently at the same time.
Due to a rise in domestic demand, the Taiwanese food industry is short of workers and adequate training. Moreover, Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an (蔣萬安) lacks experience and is slow to react.
There is room for improvement on both sides.
Recently in Taipei, 165 people reported diarrhea and vomiting due to excessive colon bacillus in spring water from Shilin District (士林). The problem is suspected to have been caused by pipes damaged in the April 3 earthquake. Large-scale food poisoning most likely arises from tainted water. Most of Taiwan’s tap water comes from reservoirs, so every link in the water supply should be monitored.
As for Longhai Enterprise in Zhangzhou in China’s Fujian Province, which mixed Sudan red dyes into red chili powder, it exported the product using nine importers at the same address in Kaohsiung. If the product was returned by a buyer, it was transferred to another importer.
Longhai Enterprise acted intentionally and an investigation must be launched into whether its actions constitute political interference.
The CCP is particularly concerned about food poisoning cases. It has scrutinized chefs at collective canteens nationwide, with extra vigilance on holidays and festivals. The CCP is particularly sensitive to sabotage, because it is so good at it itself.
Taiwan needs proper surveillance and must remain alert to protect the public’s well-being.
Paul Lin is a political commentator.
Translated by Eddy Chang
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