Frog and other illegally imported food from Vietnam found in unlicensed cold store in Sembawang

Two women, Bui Thi Quyen and Ta Thi Tuyen, were each fined $27,000 for illegally operating unlicensed cold stores and illegally importing meat and seafood products from Vietnam.

Singapore Food Agency (SFA) officers found more than 700kg of meat and seafood products stored in an unlicensed cold store at 62 Senoko Road in Sembawang on April 13, 2023.

The processed and raw food products, which include pork, beef, chicken, fish, and frog, had been illegally imported from unapproved sources and without a valid licence. They were seized by SFA.

Offenders who illegally import meat or seafood products without a valid license are liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $50,000 and/or imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years, and in the case of a subsequent conviction, to a fine not exceeding $100,000 and/or imprisonment for a term not exceeding three years.

Offenders who store meat and/or seafood products illegally in unlicensed facilities are liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $10,000 and/or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 12 months.

In a separate case, Suvai Foods, a food manufacturer of flour products such as chapati, dosa and idli batter, was fined $10,000 for multiple offences.

SFA officers conducted an inspection at 1009 Aljunied Avenue 4 on Feb 21, 2023, and found lapses such as severe cockroach infestation in various location throughout the premises, poor maintenance of the premises, as well as the extension of packing area without approval were detected.

The cleanliness of the food delivery truck was also not well maintained, and live cockroaches were detected at the rear of the truck.

SFA suspended the food business operations of Suvai Foods from Feb 21 to March 8, 2023, and directed the licensee to rectify the lapses and take necessary measures to improve the food safety practices and cleanliness of its premises.

The suspension was lifted on March 9 after the food processing establishment had rectified the lapses and taken necessary measures to improve the food safety practices and the cleanliness of its premises.

SFA will take enforcement action against food operators who do not adhere to food safety regulations.

Offenders are liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $5,000 and, in the case of a continuing offence, to a further fine not exceeding $100 for every day or part thereof during which the offence continues after conviction.