Food caterer “Stamford Catering” downgraded by SFA over food poisoning incident

Food caterer Stamford Catering’s food establishment grading was demoted to a “C” grade after an incident of 52 persons were reported to have gastroenteritis symptoms, with one case hospitalised, after consuming its food on 2 March 2019.
Ministry of Health (MOH) and the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) held a joint inspection which was conducted at the Stamford Catering premises located at 24A Senoko South Road on 5 March 2019.
The authorities said that high bacterial load was detected in food and environmental samples, which could be contributing factors for the outbreak.
“This indicates poor personal and food hygiene practices,” said the agency.
SFA noted that it also found hygiene lapses such as poor housekeeping of appliances during its inspection.
According to the agency, Stamford Catering has since rectified the lapses and stepped up on the upkeep and maintenance of their premises and equipment.
However, SFA will take enforcement action for the lapses and the failed food sample.
The agency noted that the caterer’s grade will be reviewed in 12 months. In the meantime, the agency will keep the premises under the surveillance.
SFA also remind food operators to adhere to good food hygiene and safety processes. Infection prevention practices such as the washing of hands before handling food can greatly reduce the incidence of gastroenteritis when adopted by all key stakeholders, including the industry and public.
Members of the public can view the revised grade after 12 months here under the “Search Track Records of Licensed Food Establishments”.
However, the agency noted that the information provided on this website should not be used as a basis for any legal proceedings.
“Neither SFA nor any of its employee involved in the supply of the above information shall be liable for any loss or damage suffered by any member of the public by reason of any error or omission of whatever nature appearing therein or however caused,” it added.