“Starfresh” bottled drinking water, a product which was imported from Malaysia by Radha Exports Pte Ltd, has been recalled as the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) detected the presence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria.
According to the agency, pseudomonas aeruginosa is a common environmental bacteria and can be found in faeces, soil, water and sewage.
It said that the bacteria can multiply in water environments and also on the surface of suitable organic materials in contact with water.
According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), serious Pseudomonas infections usually occur in people in the hospital and/or with weakened immune systems. Infections of the blood, pneumonia, and infections following surgery can lead to severe illness and death in these people.
However, healthy people can also develop mild illnesses with Pseudomonas aeruginosa, especially after exposure to water. Ear infections, especially in children, and more generalized skin rashes may occur after exposure to inadequately chlorinated hot tubs or swimming pools. Eye infections have occasionally been reported in persons using extended-wear contact lenses.
The recall of the product is ongoing, which include the 1,500 ml bottle of water with an expiry date of 13 May 2021 and the 500 ml bottle of water which will expire on 11 May 2021.
The importer’s website showed that Radha Exports is behind the ABC Bargain Centre and ValuDollar discount store chains.
SFA advised consumers who have purchased the implicated product not to consume it. While, those who have consumed the implicated product and have concerns about their health should seek medical advice.
It also noted that consumers may contact Radha Exports Pte Ltd at 6220 2777 for enquiries or exchange of the product.
