Update: State health officials order an embargo on raw frozen scallops distributed by Koha Oriental Foods and True World Foods as their Hepatitis A investigation continues.
Genki Sushi locations on O‘ahu and Kaua‘i remain closed, but the embargo on scallops for all locations is being enforced.
Health officials say they are in contact with the US Food and Drug Administration to investigate the origin of the product.
The Hawaii State Department of Health has ordered all Genki Sushi restaurants on Oahu and Kauai to close immediately.
State health officials say imported frozen scallops served raw at Genki Sushi are likely linked to the Hepatitis A outbreak that has infected 168 people since June.
“It’s a likely cause at this point,” said Department of Health spokeswoman Janice Okubo by phone. “We need to complete the investigation, but to prevent any further illness, we have ordered the closure.”
Okubo said health officials have determined an epidemiological link between a Genki Sushi restaurant and the current Hepatitis A outbreak. It’s not yet clear who distributes the frozen scallops and whether other Hawaii restaurants may be affected.
Hawaii state health officials plan to hold a press conference on the latest information Tuesday morning.
Calls to Genki Sushi USA were not returned as of Monday evening. There are 10 Genki Sushi restaurants on Oahu and one on Kauai.
