TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — A toxin-producing bacteria was found on the hand sample of an employee at a Taipei buffet restaurant.

Following a suspected food poisoning incident at Inparadise in the Breeze Xinyi Mall last week, the Taipei City Department of Health collected four environmental samples and four hand swab samples. Test results released Tuesday revealed Bacillus cereus in one hand swab sample, while the other samples showed no contamination.

The department noted the bacteria can easily spread via dust and insects and contaminate food. It added that improper refrigeration or storage conditions can also lead to food poisoning. 

The department said detection of the bacteria on a hand swab indicates the hygiene of the restaurant staff and facilities require improvement. The department has requested the Xinyi branch to propose corrective measures.

The Centers for Disease Control said Tuesday that 77 customers experienced symptoms of diarrhea after consuming food at the Xinyi branch between Jan. 5-6. Of the 70 patrons screened so far, nine tested positive for norovirus.

The health department added its final judgment will be based on the results of an epidemiological investigation. If deemed a food poisoning incident, it would contravene Article 15 of the Food Safety and Sanitation Act, which carries fines ranging from NT$60,000 (US$1,800) to NT$200 million under Article 44 of the same act.