Jian Bo Tiong Bahru Shui Kueh disputes SFA finding, says products do not contain prohibited preservatives
Jian Bo Tiong Bahru Shui Kueh was one of nine kueh manufacturers who had their operations suspended by the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) over the improper use of food additives.
A photo of chwee kueh posted on Facebook by Jian Bo Tiong Bahru Shui Kueh. (Photo: Facebook/Jian Bo Tiong Bahru Shui Kueh)
SINGAPORE: Jian Bo Tiong Bahru Shui Kueh, one of nine kueh manufacturers who had their operations suspended by the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) due to the improper use of food additives, has disputed the agency's findings.
Jian Bo said in a Facebook post on Wednesday (Jul 27) that the three implicated products identified by the agency - chwee kueh, nine layer kueh and tapioca kueh - do not contain benzoic acid or sorbic acid.
Under the Singapore Food Regulations, the use of benzoic acid and sorbic acid is not allowed in kueh products, with the exception of kueh fillings within permissible limits.
The suspensions began on Tuesday and were to last until further notice, SFA said on Wednesday.
Shortly after the suspension was announced, Jian Bo took to Facebook to state that it had submitted laboratory test results to the agency proving that it did not use the said additives in its products.
“We have submitted the laboratory test reports to SFA and are currently seeking clarifications from them on this action against us. It has negatively impacted our business, affected our reputation and brand name and most importantly, shaken our customers’ confidence in our products.”
Jian Bo, which is registered as Tiong Bahru Tian Bo Shui Kueh Pte Ltd, also thanked its customers for their support.
In a subsequent Facebook post on Thursday, Jian Bo announced that its suspension had been revoked. The announcement was accompanied by a screenshot of a letter purportedly sent to the company by SFA.
“We are happy to share that the Singapore Food Agency gave us a formal reply this morning after reviewing the laboratory test reports,” the company said.
Jian Bo added that the agency "revoked their earlier direction to impose movement controls, recall and manage food under the Sale of Food Act".
“Jian Bo is a heritage brand with close to 65 years of history and strong track record over the years. We pride ourselves in maintaining stringent food safety standards.”
CNA has contacted SFA for comment.
