Health officials identify cause of food poisoning outbreak at Maryland fish distribution facility

A food poisoning outbreak at NAFCO Wholesale Fish Distribution Facility in Maryland affected 46 workers after they ate a homemade noodle dish called pancit. The Maryland Department of Health identified Staphylococcus aureus bacteria as the cause. The workers fell ill about three hours after lunch on October 21, with 26 requiring hospitalization. All have since recovered. NAFCO stated the meal was prepared at home and served outside the factory, emphasizing that no consumers were impacted. The exact cause of the contamination is unclear, but it may involve improper handwashing, cooking, or food storage. NAFCO maintains high food safety standards and undergoes regular health inspections.