The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) has lifted the suspension of Middleton International School's food business operations, allowing them to resume serving meals to students at 2 Tampines Street 92. This decision comes after a gastroenteritis outbreak affected over 200 individuals, leading to a temporary halt in their operations. The outbreak, which occurred between November 19 and December 10, resulted in four hospitalizations, prompting a thorough investigation by the Communicable Diseases Agency and SFA.
The affected E-Bridge preschools are located in Bukit Panjang, Canberra, Montreal, Woodlands Drive, 471B Yishun, and 504 Yishun. Middleton International School's food business operations were suspended on November 21 to safeguard public health, as the company was found to have supplied contaminated food to these schools. Since the suspension, the supplier has taken proactive measures to ensure food safety.
They have thoroughly cleaned and sanitized their premises, including equipment and utensils, and disinfected all food preparation surfaces, tables, and floors. Additionally, food handlers have re-attended and passed the Food Safety Course Level 1, while food hygiene officers have re-attended and passed the WSQ Conduct Food & Beverage Hygiene Audit course. These rigorous steps demonstrate the company's commitment to adhering to food safety regulations.
The SFA has confirmed that the required measures have been implemented, allowing the school to resume operations. However, the agency will continue to monitor Middleton International School's food business closely to ensure compliance with food safety standards. The investigation into the outbreak is ongoing, and the SFA will take swift enforcement action if any food operators are found to have violated the Environmental Public Health (Food Hygiene) Regulations.
Offenders may face fines of up to S$2,000 upon conviction, with an additional fine of up to S$100 for each day the offense continues after the initial conviction. This strict approach aims to prevent similar incidents and protect public health.
