More than 60 people had food poisoning at Danish restaurant Noma, dubbed the world’s best eatery.

Health officials said diners at Copenhagen’s Noma restaurant fell sick over a five-day period in February, suffering from vomiting and diarrhoea.

It was not clear what caused the outbreak, but reports say the source may have been a sick kitchen employee.

Noma, which topped Restaurant Magazine’s list of the world’s 50 Best Restaurants in 2010-12, has apologized.

Officials from the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration revealed the results of their inspection on Friday.

Agency spokesman Morten Lisby was quoted as describing the outbreak as “massive”, according to the Associated Press news agency.

Noma restaurant – which opened in 2004 – prides itself for its attention to detail and relying on fresh locally sourced products.

Its chef Rene Redzepi has been described as “the standard bearer for the New Nordic movement”.

Noma charges up to 1,500 kroner ($260) for a menu without drinks, and reservations often must be made months in advance.

Health officials said diners at Copenhagen’s Noma restaurant fell sick over a five-day period in February, suffering from vomiting and diarrhoea