Stamford Catering suspension lifted on Oct. 30, to continue being monitored: SFA

The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) has lifted the suspension of Stamford Catering Services Pte Ltd on Oct. 30, 2024 following cases of gastroenteritis reported between Oct. 9 and 13, 2024.

160 people were affected after eating food supplied by the business.

In a media release on Oct. 30, SFA said that the Halal-certified food caterer, located at 24A Senoko South Road, is now allowed to resume operations after it had carried out required measures.

Staff had carried out cleaning and re-training, caterer will be monitored

Stamford Catering was ordered to halt operations from Oct. 14 to 29 to "protect consumers from further public health risks".

According to SFA, the business has since cleaned and sanitised its premises including equipment and utensils, and disinfected food preparation surfaces, tables and floors.

Food handlers have also re-attended and passed the Food Safety Course Level 1, and the Food Hygiene Officers have re-attended and passed the WSQ Conduct Food & Beverage Hygiene Audit course.

Stamford Catering Service has also taken extra steps such as replacing cracked electrical sockets and covers, and repairing floor with water accumulation.

SFA said it will continue to closely monitor the business to ensure that food safety requirements are adhered to.

The agency added that it is "considering findings from the investigations into the outbreak of gastroenteritis", and will take enforcement action against food operators guilty of violating the Environmental Public Health (Food Hygiene) Regulations.

Those found guilty may face a fine of up to S$2,000.

A further fine of up to S$100 per day will be imposed in the case of a continuing offence.

SFA has advised food operators to observe good food and personal hygiene practices at all times.

The agency has also urged the public to observe personal hygiene, and to avoid food establishments with poor hygiene practices.

They should also report such practices to SFA via its online feedback form for follow-up investigations.

Safety and quality of services remain our top priorities: Stamford Catering

On Oct. 30, Stamford Catering's management confirmed in a Facebook post that operations have since resumed.

They added that a "thorough deep cleaning" had been carried out in Stamford Catering's central kitchen.

The business also engaged a third-party cleaning company to disinfect both the kitchen and equipment over a two-day period.

Staff involved in handling food and maintaining food hygiene had successfully re-attended the relevant food safety courses.

Stamford Catering thanked the public for their patience and support, adding that the "safety and quality" of their services continue to be their "top priorities".