Over 600kg of illegally imported food from Thailand seized in islandwide raids

The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) has seized over 600kg of illegally imported frood from Thailand following raids conducted at various food retail establishments across Singapore.

The SFA said in a statement that the raids were conducted at eight food retail establishments on July 12.

SFA officers detected the sale of illegally imported processed and raw meat from Thailand at six of them.

These include pork, chicken, beef, duck and fish products.

Three of the food retail establishments were also found to be operating without a valid licence.

SFA is following up with further investigations.

"Illegally imported food products of unknown sources can pose a food safety risk," SFA said.

"In Singapore, food imports must meet SFA's requirements.

"Food can only be imported by licensed importers, and every consignment must be declared and accompanied with a valid import permit.

"In addition, meat and its products can only be imported from accredited sources in approved countries that comply with Singapore's food safety requirements."

Offenders found in possession of meat and seafood products for the purpose of selling, which were imported without a valid import permit will be fined up to $50,000 and/or given up to two years' jail.

Repeat offenders will face a fine of up to $100,000 and/or up to three years' jail.

SFA added that the operation of unlicensed food establishments also poses a food safety risk.

All food establishments in Singapore must be licensed and are required to meet SFA's requirements and food safety standards.

Offenders who operate food establishments without a valid licence will be fined up to $10,000.

Repeat offenders will be fined up to $20,000 and/or face up to three months' jail.

Members of the public with information on such illegal activities are requested to provide feedback via SFA's online feedback form with details for their follow-up investigations.

All information will be kept strictly confidential.