11 diners in China hospitalised after hotpot restaurant in Shandong accidentally added fuel to soup base

CHINA: A hotpot restaurant in Boxing County, Shandong Province, has come under investigation after 11 diners were hospitalised for accidentally consuming fuel that was reportedly added to the soup base.

Diners claim staff poured fuel into hotpot

The incident came to light on 22 November when a diner posted a video online alleging that a server at Xiaoxian Feiniu Hotpot mistakenly poured fuel into the bottom of the pot. 10 people were initially admitted to hospital, and three remained under treatment at the time the video was published.

Restaurant manager also fell ill

In comments, the diner added that the duty manager insisted the pot base was safe and even consumed several spoonfuls to prove it.

The manager later reportedly induced vomiting and was admitted for observation.

Restaurant unreachable; operations suspended

When reporters attempted to contact the restaurant on 23 November, all listed phone numbers went unanswered.

Its Meituan listing shows that the outlet has temporarily suspended operations.

11 people confirmed to have ingested fuel

Local authorities confirmed that 11 individuals had ingested fuel and were taken to hospital for testing.

Staff at the Boxing County Centre for Disease Control said four people showed positive indicator levels, but none reached the threshold to classify as poisoning.

Most have since been discharged, while one person — a non-local with no caregiver in the county — remains in hospital for IV observation.

Multi-agency investigation launched

Because the incident constitutes a sudden public health event, an investigation team has been formed involving the county’s public security bureau, market supervision bureau, and health authorities.

Officials say the case is being handled carefully and further updates will be provided once inquiries progress.