Hong Kong restaurant investigated after newborn rat found in takeout meal

Authorities in Hong Kong are investigating the Wa Jer Restaurant in Kwai Chung after a customer discovered a live, newborn rat in a takeout beef noodle meal. The incident, which occurred on a Monday, was captured in a video that went viral on social media, showing the hairless rodent moving within the satay sauce.

The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department seized the food for testing and conducted an inspection of the premises. Officials reported finding unsatisfactory hygiene conditions in several areas of the establishment. As a result, the department is pursuing legal action against the restaurant operator under food business regulations.

The restaurant owner expressed shock at the incident, noting that the business had operated for over a year without prior complaints. While acknowledging that pests are occasionally present in the industrial area, the owner stated that the facility undergoes monthly disinfection. The restaurant closed temporarily for cleaning and disinfection following the discovery.