The food business operations of 21 stalls and three trucks at the Hari Raya Mega Sale 2023 fair, held at the Singapore Expo, has been suspended for operating without a license.

Stalls were found to have unlicensed food handlers

According to a press release by the Singapore Food Agency (SFA), officers discovered the stalls at the fair on Mar. 10, at Hall 5A.

Preliminary investigation also showed that there were unregistered food handlers working at the 24 food stalls.

SFA added that in the interest of public health, it directed the organiser, Megaxpress International, to cease the operations of the stalls.

Investigations are also ongoing.

Fine of up to S$10,000 for fair operators who do not adhere to regulations

SFA highlighted that under the under the Environmental Public Health Act, all operators of temporary fairs must get a permit from the agency for the duration of the fair.

This allows SFA to ensure that fair operators have complied with measures to ensure food safety.

SFA added that applications should also be submitted at least two weeks before the fair commencement date.

In addition, food and beverage stalls at temporary fairs are required to be licensed by SFA, with food handlers who have passed the mandatory Food Safety Course Level 1.

In pointing out that enforcement action will also be taken against temporary fair operators who do not adhere to regulations, SFA said that offenders are liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding S$10,000.

For a subsequent conviction, they are liable to a fine not exceeding $20,000 or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding three months or to both.

Top photo via Singapore Food Agency