The Ministry of Health (MOH) and the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) are currently investigating a case of 82 people falling ill and showing gastroenteritis symptoms after ordering food from Chilli Api Catering Pte Ltd.
In a press release on Sunday (14 March), SFA stated that they had already issued a suspension to the operations of the catering business Chilli Api starting from 14 March.
Cases Of Gastroenteritis Symptoms Linked To Chilli Api Catering Pte Ltd
Image source: Facebook / Chilli Api Catering Pte Ltd
All the cases found consumed food from the caterer Chilli Api between the days 10 and 12 March of this year. So far, 14 customers have been hospitalised and are currently in stable condition.
For the uninitiated, before all food handlers within the premises can resume working, they are required to:
- Re-attend as well as pass the Food Safety Course Level 1
- Test negative for food-borne pathogens
Appointed Food Hygiene Officer(s) working at the premises are also required to:
- Re-attend and pass the WSQ Conduct Food and Beverage Hygiene Audit course
- Licensees will also be required to thoroughly clean as well as sanitise the premises including that of equipment and utensils
“Food safety is a joint responsibility,” states the organisation. “SFA would like to remind food operators to observe good food and personal hygiene practices at all times.”
“SFA will not hesitate to take firm action against anyone found to be in violation of the Environmental Public Health Act,” the authorities added.
Members of the public are also encouraged to report to the SFA any encounters with poor hygiene practices in food establishments. The authority has also advised public not to patronise such outlets.
Keep Your Family Safe From Food Poisoning
Image source: iStock
According to WebMD, gastroenteritis is a serious condition where your stomach and intestines end up irritated and inflamed due to either a viral or bacterial infection. Since your child can easily be exposed to such infections while at childcare centres or schools, it’s important to ensure their safety.
So here are a few precautions you can take to protect your loved ones from such infections:
1. Only let your child eat fully-cooked meal. If you aren’t absolutely sure about a meal’s hygiene standards, avoid having your little one consume raw foods.
2. Make sure to eat food within two hours of being cooked. While leftovers can be safe at times, it’s best to consume your meals at the earliest possible time.
3. If you are to eat leftovers, properly reheat them before giving them to your child. It is also advisable to keep them for less than 3 to 4 days.
4. Practice proper hygiene when preparing meals. Remind your kids, caregiver and even yourself to always wash your hands thoroughly before handling food.
5. Store your food the right way. Avoid mixing up cooked and uncooked foods together when they’re stored, as well as when preparing them.
With reports from Sarah Voon.
News Source: CNA
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