Health authorities have suspended the food business operations of Edge @ Pan Pacific Hotel after six gastroenteritis incidents affected 16 diners.
The Ministry of Health (MOH) and the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) are investigating multiple cases of gastroenteritis linked to food consumed at Edge @ Pan Pacific Hotel. Between 2 and 18 May 2024, 16 people fell ill after dining at the hotel’s restaurant. The affected individuals experienced gastroenteritis symptoms, prompting the authorities to take swift action.
Initial Feedback and Immediate Measures
The first signs of trouble came when diners reported symptoms of gastroenteritis. The management of Edge @ Pan Pacific Hotel responded promptly by conducting health screenings of food handlers and performing a deep clean of the premises. Despite these measures, further cases emerged, indicating ongoing contamination.
In response to the continuing transmission of illness, the SFA suspended Edge @ Pan Pacific Hotel’s food business operations on 24 May 2024. The suspension is in effect until further notice. This decisive action requires the hotel to undertake extensive cleaning and sanitisation of the kitchen, dining areas, equipment, and utensils. Additionally, all ready-to-eat and perishable food items must be disposed of to prevent further health risks.
Compliance and Safety Training for Food Handlers
To resume operations, all food handlers at Edge @ Pan Pacific Hotel are mandated to re-attend and pass the Food Safety Course Level 1. They must also test negative for foodborne pathogens. Furthermore, the Food Hygiene Officer, who oversees hygiene practices, is required to re-attend and pass the Food Safety Course Level 3. These measures aim to ensure that all personnel are adequately trained in maintaining high standards of food safety.
Emphasising the Importance of Food Safety
The SFA emphasises that food safety is a shared responsibility. Therefore, food operators must consistently adhere to strict hygiene and safety standards to protect public health. Additionally, the agency warns that it will not hesitate to take firm action against anyone found violating the Environmental Public Health Act. Ultimately, ensuring high standards of food hygiene is crucial in preventing outbreaks of foodborne illnesses.
Public’s Role in Reporting Poor Hygiene Practices
The SFA encourages the public to play a proactive role in maintaining food safety standards. Members of the public who observe poor hygiene practices in food establishments are advised not to patronise such outlets. Instead, they should report these observations to the SFA using the online feedback form available on the agency’s website. Detailed reports from the public can help the SFA conduct thorough investigations and take necessary actions to rectify issues.
The suspension of Edge @ Pan Pacific Hotel’s food operations highlights the critical importance of stringent food safety measures. As the investigation continues, the MOH and SFA remain committed to ensuring the health and safety of diners. By adhering to food safety regulations and maintaining high hygiene standards, food establishments can help prevent future outbreaks of gastroenteritis and other foodborne illnesses.
References
- Suspension of Edge @ Pan Pacific Hotel’s food business operations. (2024, May 25). https://www.sfa.gov.sg/docs/default-source/press-releases/sfa-media-release—suspension-of-edge-at-pan-pacific.pdf?sfvrsn=3030f494_1
