Uncle's Otah Foodstuff and its director fined $30k each for multiple food safety lapses

An otah supplier was fined $30,000 for multiple food safety lapses, the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) said in a statement.

Uncle's Otah Foodstuff's director, Hu Zhonglai Jason, was also fined $30,000 for failing to exercise due diligence to prevent the offence from being committed.

SFA officers conducted an inspection at Uncle's Otah Foodstuff, a food manufacturing establishment at Gourmet East Kitchen in Bedok North, on Sept 21, 2022.

During the inspection, the premises was found to be poorly maintained, the agency said.

The floor was wet and dirty, air curtains were badly stained, a false ceiling board was dislodged, floor tiles were found to be broken and dirty and dirty walls were found at multiple areas.

In the interest of public health, SFA suspended Uncle's Otah Foodstuff's business operation from Sept 21, 2022 to Oct 4, 2022.

The company was also directed to rectify the lapses and take necessary measures to improve the food safety practices and the cleanliness of its premises.

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

All food operator should ensure their premises are clean and well-maintained, and staff are adequately trained on proper food safety management.

SFA said it will take enforcement action against food operators who do not adhere to regulations or comply with food hygiene and food safety requirements.

Offenders face a fine of up to $10,000 or up to 12 months' jail, or both.