Bedok North caterer fined S$10,000 after 83 cases of gastroenteritis, cockroach infestation found at premises

A caterer licensed by the Singapore Food Agency (SFA), Masakan Shaik Sabri, has been fined S$10,000 on Dec. 11 for multiple food safety lapses under the the Environmental Public Health (Food Hygiene) Regulations.

According to a press release by the SFA, it had received reports in 2023 of gastroenteritis involving 83 individuals who had consumed catered food prepared by the caterer, which is located at 3015 Bedok North Street 5.

Reports were sent to the Ministry of Health (MOH) as well.

None of the individuals were hospitalised.

Cockroach infestation discovered

When MOH and SFA conducted a joint investigation at the caterer’s premises, they found multiple food safety lapses.

These included a cockroach infestation at the food preparation area, poor housekeeping, and unclean premises.

SFA suspended the caterer’s food business operation from May 4, 2023, to June 22, 2023.

SFA also directed the caterer to rectify the lapses and take necessary measures to improve the cleanliness of its premises.

The caterer was also required to dispose all ready-to-eat food, prepared ingredients, perishable food items and intermediate food products.

SFA added, "Food can be contaminated anywhere along the food chain. While SFA continues to be vigilant and works to ensure regulatory measures are in place and properly enforced, the industry and consumers must also play their part."

Under the Environmental Public Health Act, offenders are liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding S$2,000 and, in the case of a continuing offence, to a further fine not exceeding S$100 for every day or part thereof during which the offence continues after conviction.

Members of public who encounter poor hygiene practices or illegal activities in food establishments are advised not to patronise them and to provide feedback via SFA's online feedback form.

Top images via SFA