In a recent announcement by the Singapore Food Agency (SFA), Amin Mee Goreng Stall, a well-known food establishment located at Block 498 Jurong West Street 41, is set to face a temporary suspension for a duration of two weeks, starting from September 19th to October 2nd. This suspension comes as a result of the eatery’s accumulation of 12 demerit points over a 12-month period, raising questions about the consequences of such violations and the importance of food safety regulations.
Understanding the Points Demerit System
The Points Demerit System, implemented by the SFA, is designed to monitor and regulate the compliance of food establishments with food safety standards. Under this system, food establishments are assigned demerit points for various violations, and the severity of these points varies depending on the nature of the offense.
The Offenses That Led to Suspension
Amin Mee Goreng Stall incurred a total of 12 demerit points due to two specific offenses. The first offense was the failure to maintain licensed premises free of infestation, while the second offense was the failure to register an assistant. Both of these offenses carried six demerit points each, resulting in the accumulation that led to the suspension.
Consequences of Accumulating Demerit Points
The SFA has a strict policy in place for licensees who accumulate 12 or more demerit points within a 12-month period. Such licensees may face a range of actions, including suspension for either two or four weeks, or even license cancellation. These measures are implemented to ensure that food establishments maintain the highest standards of hygiene and safety for their customers.
Rehabilitative Measures
During the suspension period, all food handlers employed at Amin Mee Goreng Stall will be required to re-attend and successfully pass the Food Safety Course Level 1 before they can resume their duties. Additionally, the licensee must ensure that any food hygiene officers working at the suspended premises, if applicable, re-attend and pass the Food Safety Course Level 3.
SFA’s Commitment to Food Safety
The SFA places great importance on maintaining impeccable food safety standards throughout Singapore. It is essential for all food operators to observe good food and personal hygiene practices consistently and employ registered food handlers. The agency emphasizes that it will not hesitate to take stern action against anyone found to be in violation of the Environmental Public Health Act.
Public Involvement
In the interest of upholding high standards of food hygiene at all eating establishments, the SFA encourages members of the public to play an active role. If you happen to come across poor hygiene practices in food establishments, the SFA advises against patronizing such outlets. Instead, you are encouraged to provide feedback via the online feedback form here or contact the SFA Contact Centre at 68052871, providing them with the necessary details for their follow-up investigations.