Stamford Catering Services’ food operations suspended after gastroenteritis outbreak

Stamford Catering Services’ food business operations have been suspended by the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) following reports of food poisoning incidents.

The suspension, which took effect on 14 October 2024, was announced after three cases of gastroenteritis affected 51 individuals who consumed food provided by the catering service on 12 October.

The Ministry of Health (MOH) and SFA are currently investigating the incidents. None of the affected individuals required hospitalisation, the SFA clarified in its media release.

The suspension will remain in effect until further notice, pending the completion of investigations and compliance with remedial measures. Stamford Catering Services must adhere to stringent conditions during this period, including thorough cleaning and sanitisation of its premises, equipment, and utensils.

The caterer’s food handlers are also required to re-attend and pass the Food Safety Course Level 1.

Additionally, they must test negative for foodborne pathogens before they can resume their duties. The SFA stated that the food hygiene officer in charge at Stamford Catering Services must re-attend and successfully complete the Food Safety Course Level 3 before being allowed to resume their responsibilities.

n response to the suspension, Stamford Catering Services issued a statement on their Facebook page on 14 October, acknowledging the situation and reassuring customers.

"We were contacted by the authorities, and have been instructed to temporarily suspend operations at our central kitchen," the statement read.

Stamford emphasised that customer safety remains their "top priority" and stated that they have "always adhered to stringent food safety protocols."

The company also assured the public that it is working closely with health authorities and has taken "immediate action" to ensure the kitchen is safe for operation.

Stamford promised to provide updates as more information becomes available and thanked customers for their understanding during this period.

Stamford Catering Services, located at 24A Senoko South Road, is no stranger to food safety issues.

In 2019, it faced a downgrade in its food hygiene rating to "C" after another food poisoning incident that affected 52 people. Following that incident, joint inspections by the SFA and MOH revealed high bacterial contamination in both food and environmental samples, as well as other hygiene lapses, such as poor maintenance of appliances.

The recent suspension raises concerns about the caterer’s food safety practices. While none of the recent victims required hospitalisation, the number of those affected highlights the ongoing risks associated with improper food handling and hygiene. The SFA and MOH have taken a proactive stance to address these issues through their investigation and imposed requirements for the caterer’s staff.

Members of the public are also encouraged to report any unhygienic practices they may observe at food establishments to the SFA through its online reporting system.