SINGAPORE, Oct 28 — Food caterer Deli Hub Catering’s food business operations have been suspended by the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) after 51 pupils and two employees from two MOE kindergartens in the north-east were hit by gastroenteritis.
The Communicable Diseases Agency (CDA) and the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) said in a joint media release with the Ministry of Education (MOE) on Tuesday (October27) night that two incidents of gastroenteritis reported at MOE Kindergarten @ Springdale and MOE Kindergarten @ Gongshang are being investigated.
According to the agencies, the 53 individuals had developed gastroenteritis symptoms between October2721 and 23 after consuming food supplied by the caterer.
Those affected have since sought outpatient treatment, self-medicated, or recovered without treatment, but none were hospitalised.
The two affected MOE kindergartens have since stepped-up hygiene and precautionary measures, and also conducted thorough cleaning and disinfection of the affected areas.
Meanwhile, the caterer’s business operations at Boon Lay have been suspended from October2727 until further notice.
“The licensee is required to comply with measures during the suspension, including cleaning and sanitising the premises, equipment, and utensils,” the three agencies said.
Food handlers working at Deli Hub Catering’s premises will also be required to attend and pass the Food Safety Course Level 1 and test negative for foodborne pathogens, before they are allowed to return to work as food handlers.
In addition, the appointed food hygiene officer working at the caterer must re-attend and pass the Food Safety Course Level 3 before being allowed to resume duties.
To ensure that there is no disruption in meal provisions for the pupils, Kindergarten Care operator has arranged another food supplier for the two kindergartens.
SFA also reminded food operators that food safety is a joint responsibility, emphasising that good food and personal hygiene practices must be observed at all times.
The agency added that it will not hesitate to take firm action against anyone found to be in violation of the Environment Public Health Act.
“In the interest of maintaining a high standard of food hygiene at all eating establishments, we would also like to advise members of the public who come across poor hygiene practices in food establishments not to patronise such outlets and to report to SFA,” the agency added.
Members of the public may report food hygiene practices via SFA’s online feedback form at www.sfa.gov.sg/feedback. — AsiaOne
