Dave’s Sushi: One Year Since Shutdown; Health Department Reveals Risk Factors for Food-Borne Illnesses and Addresses Violations

A year has passed since the Gallatin City-County Health Department (GCCHHD) ordered the closure of Dave’s Sushi in Bozeman due to an outbreak that affected 50 people and resulted in two deaths. The investigation revealed that the morel mushrooms served by the restaurant were not cooked properly, leading to toxin contamination. However, no other restaurant that received morels from the same supplier reported any issues with their customers.

The GCCHD has been tight-lipped about the specifics of the outbreak at Dave’s Sushi but have shared that there are five main risk factors that contribute to food-borne illnesses, including unsafe food sources, improper food storage temperatures, undercooked or raw food, contaminated environments and equipment, and poor personal hygiene of handlers. Since reopening in May 2023, Dave’s Sushi has been closely monitored by the health department with frequent inspections to ensure compliance with food safety regulations.

Despite this monitoring, two violations were reported during a recent inspection on December 20th, 2023. However, these violations were promptly addressed and resolved on-site. Most violations found during inspections are typically corrected on-site or shortly after and do not result in closure of the establishment. With these measures in place, it is hoped that Dave’s Sushi can continue to operate safely and without any further incidents.