Shiok Kitchen Catering Suspended After 95 People Fell Sick After Eating Their Food

95 Fall Ill from Gastroenteritis After Dining from Shiok Kitchen Catering

95 people are not exactly feeling so ‘shiok‘ after eating from Shiok Kitchen Catering last week.

Shiok Kitchen Catering, located at 1 Senoko Avenue, is currently under suspension after an unfortunate incident where 95 customers fell ill with gastroenteritis, commonly known as stomach flu, following their meals.

Image: MOH

This outbreak, characterised by symptoms such as diarrhoea and vomiting, has understandably caused concern among the public.

Although none of the affected individuals required hospitalisation, they did seek medical treatment.

Shiok Kitchen Catering focuses on delivering top-notch yet cost-effective catering solutions for clients, and provides services for buffet catering, tea receptions, corporate catering, and more.

This situation is reminiscent of the incidents involving Ya Kun & King of Prawn Noodles, which also faced suspensions by the Singapore Food Agency (SFA).

As of 14 Dec, Shiok Kitchen Catering has been suspended until further notice.

While it has not been disclosed if they face any fines, similar to the $800 fines imposed on the other two eateries, it is known that these penalties were levied due to the eateries accumulating 12 demerit points over 12 months for failing to maintain their premises free of infestations.

The exact cause of the lapse at Shiok Kitchen Catering is still under investigation.

However, the significant number of people affected – 95 in total – following the consumption of food prepared by Shiok Kitchen Catering Pte Ltd between 7 and 8 Dec 2023, necessitated an immediate closure of the establishment.

This figure is not insignificant and indicates a serious breach of food safety standards.

Shiok Kitchen Catering has not issued any official responses as of yet.

In response to this incident, all food handlers at the premises are mandated to re-attend and pass the Food Safety Course Level 1.

Additionally, they must test negative for foodborne pathogens before resuming their roles as food handlers.

Furthermore, the appointed Food Hygiene Officer is required to re-attend and pass the Food Safety Course Level 3 before they can continue working.

The SFA’s guidelines for Shiok Kitchen Catering also include thorough cleaning and sanitisation of their premises, including all equipment and utensils.

There is also an instruction to dispose of all ready-to-eat food and perishable food items as a precautionary measure.

In light of this incident, the SFA has issued a reminder to all food operators, emphasising the importance of maintaining good food and personal hygiene practices.

They have also warned that strict action will be taken against any establishment found to be in violation of the Environmental Public Health Act.

This incident serves as a sober reminder of the crucial importance of food safety standards in the food and beverage industry.