A screenshot of the release from Chinese Consulate General in Düsseldorf

China's Consulate General in Düsseldorf said it has moved swiftly to assist Chinese exhibitors and press for accountability after a collective food poisoning incident occurred during the MEDICA 2025 - an international medical equipment exhibition in Düsseldorf, Germany, urging local authorities to strengthen protections and calling for tighter self-regulation across the Chinese restaurant industry in North Rhine-Westphalia, according to a statement on Friday from the Consulate General.
 
Upon learning of the situation, the consulate immediately reached out to the affected individuals to inquire about their condition, convey sympathy, and express readiness to provide consular assistance at any time. It also lodged representations with the restaurant suspected of supplying the food, urging it to handle the matter properly, issue an apology, and offer appropriate compensation, according to the statement. 

The Chinese Consulate General requested that local police strengthen protection of the safety and legitimate interests of Chinese institutions, businesses, and citizens in the consular district during the major exhibition. 

To prevent similar incidents from occurring again, the consulate intends to use this case as an opportunity to urge the German Chinese Restaurant Association to guide Chinese restaurants in North Rhine-Westphalia in conducting self-regulation and internal inspections across the industry, said the Consulate General.

According to a report from the Xinhua News Agency, more than 100 Chinese participants attending the MEDICA 2025 developed symptoms of food poisoning on the November 17. 

At least four people were hospitalized, though no serious injuries or fatalities have been reported. The consulate is still verifying the exact number of those affected, but initial estimates place it at more than 100. All hospitalized individuals are now in stable condition, per Xinhua.

The restaurant involved issued an apology on social media on November 19, admitting to serious errors in the preparation of group meals, including insufficient thawing and cooking of meat products. It said these mistakes caused many diners to feel unwell. The restaurant added that it has taken several corrective measures, such as purchasing and distributing medication and helping arrange medical treatment for participants with more severe symptoms, according to Xinhua. 
 
Global Times