S$3,000 fine for bakery after dead mice were found on floor, among other food safety lapses
this is index.phpSINGAPORE — A bakery where dead mice were found on the floor of the food preparation area in late 2021 was issued with a fine of S$3,000 in court on Wednesday (Dec 6).
Proofer Bakery was penalised for multiple safety lapses under the Sale of Food (Non-Retail Food Business) Regulations, the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) said in a media release.
The agency conducted an inspection on Oct 26 in 2021 at the bakery’s unit housed in a commercial building at 171 Kampong Ampat off MacPherson Road.
During the inspection, SFA officers found dead mice on the floor in the food preparation area.
Several lapses relating to poor maintenance of the premises and equipment were also observed.
The agency added: “In the interest of public health, SFA suspended the food business operations of Proofer Bakery from Oct 26, 2021 to Jan 25, 2022.”
It had directed the licensee to rectify the lapses and take necessary measures to improve the food safety practices and cleanliness of its premises.
Proofer Bakery was also directed to recall various food products at its 16 retail outlets on Oct 26 as a precautionary measure.
The suspension was lifted on Jan 26 last year after the food processing establishment had rectified the lapses and taken necessary measures to improve the food safety practices and the cleanliness of its premises, SFA said.
SFA reminded operators that food safety is a joint responsibility because food can be contaminated anywhere along the food chain.
“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 operators should ensure their premises are clean and well-maintained, and staff are adequately trained on proper food safety management.
“SFA will take enforcement action against food operators who do not adhere to regulations or comply with food safety requirements.”
If found guilty, offenders are liable to be fined up to S$5,000 and, in the case of a continuing offence, be further fined up to S$100 for every day or part thereof during which the offence continues after conviction.
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