Catering company fined $4,000 after 21 people fall sick, dirty freezer and food containers found

A catering company was fined $4,000 for hygiene lapses under the Sale of Food Act.

In December 2022, the Ministry of Health (MOH) and Singapore Food Agency (SFA) received reports of gastroenteritis involving 21 people who had consumed food prepared by Deli Hub Catering.

No one was hospitalised, SFA said in a statement on Wednesday (Sept 20).

Both agencies conducted a joint investigation at their premises and found hygiene lapses, including a dirty freezer, unclean containers used for food preparation, and empty paper towel dispensers.

PHOTO: SFA

SFA directed Deli Hub Catering to rectify the lapses.

"Food safety is a joint responsibility as food can be contaminated anywhere along the food chain," SFA said.

"While SFA continues to be vigilant and works to ensure that regulatory measures are in place and properly enforced, the industry and consumers must also play their part.

"All food establishments should ensure that their premises are clean and well-maintained, as well as adhere to proper food hygiene and food safety requirements.

"SFA will not hesitate to take firm action against anyone found to be in violation of the Sale of Food Act."

Offenders can face a fine of up to $5,000, and repeat offenders may be fined an additional $100 for each day the offence continues after conviction.

The public is advised to avoid patronising food establishments with poor hygiene practices and to provide feedback via the SFA's online form for follow-up investigations.