Man behind company that recalled youtiao products fined $4k for severe pest infestation, other lapses

A man named Cheong Ah Kiong was fined $4,000 on Monday (Aug 28) after food safety lapses were found in his licensed food processing establishment at 3020 Ubi Avenue 2, #01-143.

Singapore Food Agency (SFA) officers inspected Ever Dragon Foodstuff on June 15 last year and observed severe pest infestation in the form of live and dead cockroaches, rodent activity and decomposed rodents at the processing area and mezzanine level.

SFA also detected other lapses related to poor maintenance of the premises as well as manufacturing of food products not approved under their licence.

The food business operation of the company was suspended with effect from that day until further notice.

As a precautionary measure, SFA also directed the company to recall the you tiao (fried dough fritters) products that have been distributed to various food stalls.

In the interest of public health, SFA directed the licensee to rectify the lapses and take necessary measures to improve the cleanliness of its premises.

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 regulatory measures are in place and properly enforced, the industry and consumers must also play their part.

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

If you come across poor food safety practices in food establishments, you are advised not to patronise them, and instead provide feedback via our online feedback form with details for our follow-up investigations.