Central kitchen fined $6,000 after 'widespread cockroach infestation' found in premises

A central kitchen in Admiralty was fined $6,000 in court for failing to sure that its premises is properly maintained and kept clean.

The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) said in a news release that during routing inspections of Obayed Holdings premises on Sep 5 and Nov 15, several lapses were identified.

These included a widespread cockroach infestation within the premises, structural damages such as cracked floor tiles in the cooking room, and poor housekeeping resulting in the presence of houseflies and ants in the cutting room.

The central kitchen is located at #04-11 Food Xchange @ Admiralty and is licensed for the manufacturing of cooked meals.

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

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

It added that food operators should ensure that their premises are clean and well maintained, and staff are adequately trained on food safety management.

It added that it will take action against those who flout regulations or food hygiene and safety requirements.

Offenders are liable to a maximum fine of S$5,000. 

In the case of a continuing offence, they also face a further fine of up to S$100 for every day or part thereof during which the offence continues after conviction.

Members of the public who come across poor hygiene practices in food establishments are advised not to patronise them and provide feedback via SFA's online feedback form (www.sfa.gov.sg/feedback) or call their contact centre at 6805 2871 with details for follow-up investigations.