Shiok Kitchen Catering allowed to resume operations after suspension due to gastroenteritis cases

SINGAPORE: Shiok Kitchen Catering, suspended in December last year after dozens of cases of gastroenteritis, had its suspension lifted on Friday (Jan 5).

The company's operations were suspended from Dec 14 after the Ministry of Health (MOH) and the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) received reports of gastroenteritis.

A total of 125 people fell ill with gastroenteritis after consuming food prepared by Shiok Kitchen Catering between Dec 4 and Dec 9, said MOH and SFA on Friday.

None of them were hospitalised. Those affected either sought outpatient treatment, self-medicated or recovered without treatment.

The catering company has implemented the required stipulated measures and can resume operations, said the authorities. 

During the suspension period, Shiok Kitchen Catering disposed of all ready-to-eat food, thawed food and perishable food items.

It cleaned and sanitised their premises, including equipment and utensils. Food preparation surfaces, tables and floors were disinfected as well. 

According to requirements, Shiok Kitchen Catering's food handlers and food hygiene officers reattended and passed their respective food safety and hygiene courses.

The company has also taken additional steps, such as replacing their under-counter chiller, kitchen scale and ice storage boxes. Pest control treatments were also conducted on their premises, said MOH and SFA. 

Following the lifting of the suspension, Shiok Kitchen Catering will continue to be placed under "close surveillance" to ensure adherence to food safety requirements.

"SFA is considering the findings from the investigations into the outbreak of gastroenteritis and will take enforcement action if Shiok Kitchen Catering is found to have violated the Environmental Public Health (Food Hygiene) Regulations." 

Those found guilty face a fine of up to S$2,000. In the case of a continuing offence, they will also receive a further fine of up to S$100 for every day during which the offence continues after conviction.

SFA reminded food operators to observe good food and personal hygiene practices at all times.

Members of the public were also reminded to practise good hygiene at all times to prevent the spread of diseases and protect themselves from infections. 

These include washing their hands with soap and water before eating and after going to the toilet. They should also cover their mouths and noses with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, and throw the tissue away into a bin immediately. 

They should also not share food or drinks, eating utensils, toothbrushes or towels with others.