SINGAPORE, June 29 — The Paul Bakery outlet at Paragon Shopping Centre along Orchard Road has temporarily closed after the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) suspended its licence for three weeks, the agency confirmed.

Singapore media outlet Mothership reported today that the suspension, which took effect on June 23 and will last until July 6, was imposed after the French bakery chain accumulated 12 demerit points within a 12-month period. 

In a statement, the SFA cited the outlet “for failing to keep the licensed premises free of cockroach infestation” as the reason for the penalty.

Under SFA regulations, a licensee that accumulates 12 or more demerit points within a 12-month period may have its licence suspended for either two or four weeks, or cancelled, depending on the severity and track record.

As part of the suspension terms, the licensee is required to rectify all lapses and take necessary measures to improve the food safety practices and cleanliness of its premises.

In addition, all food handlers working at the affected outlet will be required to re-attend and pass the WSQ Food Safety Course Level 1 before they can resume work. 

Any food hygiene officers assigned to the suspended premises must also re-attend and pass the WSQ Food Safety Course Level 3.

The SFA reiterated that food safety is a shared responsibility. 

“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,” the agency said in its statement.

There has been no public statement from Paul Bakery at the time of reporting, though the bakery’s official website notes that the outlet is temporarily closed.