An Asian outdoor food vendor operating in front of the Tonga Post Office in central Nuku’alofa has been ordered to close following allegations of food poisoning.
It has been reported that children suffered food poisoning after eating food from the vendor, and this was not the first time alleged poisoning incidents had been linked to the same establishment.
Local reporter Mele Manu Fiu reported the incident.
She publicly thanked the Ministry of Health, particularly staff from the Emergency Department and Public Health Division, for their swift response after she lodged a complaint.
She claimed her children became ill after eating food purchased from the stall.
In a post shared on social media, Fiu confirmed the tent‑based food stall’s closure, saying:
“It has been confirmed that this food tent has been closed after some of the ingredients used were found to be expired. Work is continuing regarding this restaurant.”
According to Fiu, a total of seven patients — including her four children — were admitted to hospital with symptoms consistent with food‑related illness, including food poisoning.
She said the cases were reported directly by Emergency Department staff to the Ministry of Health’s Public Health outreach unit, prompting immediate action.
Fiu urged members of the public to be vigilant and report any suspected food‑related illnesses.
“If you eat food and experience vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach cramps, and weakness, it is important to speak up and report it. Some people recognise the signs of food poisoning, while others do not,” she said.
She noted that, with the current hot and humid weather, many families rely on ready-made meals, making proper food handling and hygiene more important than ever.
Food safety experts warn that food preparation carries significant responsibility, especially in commercial kitchens.
Fiu echoed this sentiment, saying food handlers and businesses must take greater care to ensure hygiene standards are followed to protect the health of the public.
The Ministry of Health is expected to continue its investigation into the restaurant to determine whether further action is required.
Authorities could not be reached for comment.
