SFA Revoked a Recall After Kueh Manufacturer Disputes Their Findings

2022-07-28 , 6:07 pm

One of Nine Manufacturers Who Got Suspended

Due to the high levels of benzoic or sorbic acid detected in the kueh components, nine manufacturers have been ordered to suspend their operations.

The two acids are common food additives to preserve food. They are safe for consumption, but only in small quantities.

Under Singapore’s food regulations, the use of benzoic or sorbic acids are banned in kueh products except for its fillings. If it’s used in the fillings, it shouldn’t exceed the permissible limits.

Jian Bo was one of the manufacturers who were affected by Singapore Food Agency’s orders.

Sent Laboratory Findings to SFA, SFA Revoked Order

According to Jian Bo’s Facebook posts, they clarified that their products do not contain benzoic or sorbic acid.

Upon receiving the order to suspend operations from SFA, Jian Bo sent their products for laboratory tests on 26 July. The results came back negative on 27 July, which they submitted to SFA.

On 28 July, SFA replied them after reviewing the laboratory reports, and have revoked their earlier order.

Brand Negatively Affected By News of Suspension

Jian Bo is a very popular brand with almost 65 years of history. Mr Eric Ang, the brand’s third-generation owner, shared with The Straits Times that SFA’s suspension has damaged their reputation, despite its quick revoking of it.

Their business collaborations with major convenience stores and hotels have been negatively affected by the news of suspension. Jian Bo might even need to engage a public relations agency to ramp up publicity efforts and salvage the sales of their products.

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Customers Glad that Suspension Was Revoked Quickly

Customers interviewed by The Straits Times expressed that they were glad that the suspension from SFA was revoked quickly, especially since their kueh is a comfort food.

Others were slightly taken back when the suspension was announced, as they are loyal customers who have been eating their kueh for many years. Thankfully, the store has proved that their customers have nothing to fear.

One customer said that with National Day around the corner, it is great that this longstanding home-grown brand has recovered quickly from this obstacle.

So the next time you pass by Tiong Bahru market, feel free to buy as much shui kueh as you want!