At least 6 rats spotted at porridge stall in Hougang coffee shop, SFA inspection found no rat nests

At least six rats were spotted scurrying around a stall at a coffee shop in Hougang — yes, six.

A video of the rodents running amok at Yi Sheng Teochew Porridge stall was posted on Facebook group Complaint Singapore on Nov. 22.

According to the post, the coffee shop is located at Hougang Avenue 3 Block 23.

Scurrying about

The video begins with a worker mopping the floor of the coffee shop, before panning to the porridge stall.

It then zooms in on at least six rats darting across the stall, navigating through various kitchenware.

One rat was filmed chewing through a packet of what appeared to be raw meat.

Stall closed

A former employee of Yi Sheng Porridge who wished to remain anonymous told Lianhe Zaobao that the stall is currently closed.

When Lianhe Zaobao's reporter arrived at 11am on Nov. 23, the stall was reportedly undergoing floor renovation.

SFA's statement

In response to Mothership's queries, the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) said that they have conducted a joint inspection of the coffee shop together with the National Environment Agency (NEA) and the Housing & Development Board (HDB).

Preliminary investigation did not find evidence of rat harbourage within the eating house, they said.

However, SFA has instructed the licensee to strengthen pest control measures, including increasing the frequency of pest control treatments and sealing of potential entry points to prevent rodents from entering the premises.

Additionally, the operator is required to maintain proper refuse management and storage practices to eliminate potential food sources for pests.

SFA will continue to monitor the situation closely, they added.

"Food safety is a joint responsibility," the agency also said, adding that while SFA puts in place and enforces the regulatory measures, food operators must play their part by adhering to good food hygiene and preparation practices.

Members of the public who have concerns about food safety practices by food operators can report to SFA via the online feedback form (www.sfa.gov.sg/feedback).

"SFA takes a serious view towards food safety and will investigate all feedback alleging poor food safety practices. As part of the enquiry and gathering of evidence, SFA may engage the feedback provider for more details and will not hesitate to take enforcement action if sufficient evidence has been obtained."

Top photos from Complaint Singapore/Facebook