Japanese conveyor belt sushi giant Kura Sushi is once again embroiled in a public health controversy. A video recently went viral on social media, showing a customer, believed to be a woman, at the Yamagata Minamikan branch in Yamagata City, touching sushi on the conveyor belt with her bare hands and even drinking directly from a soy sauce bottle on the table. The footage has sparked widespread condemnation.
After the video surfaced, netizens expressed shock and anger, with comments criticizing, "This behavior severely damages the restaurant's reputation," and "It makes other customers uneasy, what's so funny about it?" The incident quickly became a trending topic across multiple Japanese platforms, marking another case that has drawn public attention following several "sushi terror" incidents last year. 
Kura Sushi issued a statement on the 14th, confirming that the video was indeed filmed at its Yamagata Minamikan branch. The company has identified the customer involved and has consulted with the police regarding further legal action. The company also stated that to ensure food safety, all sushi on the conveyor belt during that time has been immediately replaced, and all tabletop condiments have been thoroughly disinfected.
Since 2023, Kura Sushi has progressively implemented various preventive measures, including an AI monitoring system capable of detecting abnormal opening of sushi covers, and replacing condiment containers when customers change tables. However, this incident demonstrates that even with enhanced monitoring, malicious acts remain difficult to completely eradicate.
Addressing public concerns, Kura Sushi emphasized, "Such behavior will not be tolerated, and the company will handle it strictly to maintain a safe and comfortable dining environment for our customers." Police have now launched an investigation, and further developments are ongoing.
via： 毎日新聞デジタル