Two popular mooncake brands in Singapore have been pulled from shelves after tests revealed dangerous bacterial contamination.
The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) issued urgent recalls for the Snow Skin Yam Mooncake by Ewayz Pte Ltd. and Four Seasons Durian’s Mini D24 Durian Mooncake, just days before the Mid-Autumn Festival, sparking health concerns among consumers.
Speaking to CNN, Dr. Leana Wen, a medical expert, explained that common symptoms of foodborne illness include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and stomach pain.
“In most cases, foodborne illnesses resolve on their own with rest and hydration,” she said. However, Dr. Wen advises seeking medical attention if symptoms like bloody diarrhoea, high fever, or prolonged vomiting occur.
These recalls are not isolated incidents. Singapore has seen several gastroenteritis outbreaks in recent months, raising broader food safety concerns. In August 2024, more than 60 people fell ill due to a gastroenteritis outbreak at ByteDance’s Singapore office, and earlier this year, Peach Garden Pte Ltd in Upper Thomson experienced a similar outbreak affecting diners. Health authorities have acted quickly in these cases, suspending food operations when necessary to prevent further incidents.
E. coli Found in Snow Skin Yam Mooncake
Baker’s Cottage Snow Skin Signature Yam Mooncake
The first mooncake recall in Singapore focuses on Baker’s Cottage Snow Skin Signature Yam Mooncake, imported from Malaysia by Ewayz Pte Ltd. During routine safety checks, the SFA found Escherichia coli (E. coli) contamination in the product, exceeding Singapore’s food regulations limits.
In a statement published on its website, Baker’s Cottage said that they had “ensured compliance” with Singapore Food Agency’s (SFA) standards before the mooncakes were exported, “it appears that mishandling during transit and storage at a third-party warehouse may have led to product deterioration”.
E. coli Infections
E. coli is a bacterium normally present in the intestines of humans and animals. While most strains are harmless, some can cause severe foodborne illnesses. Symptoms of E. coli infection include stomach cramps, diarrhoea, vomiting, and in more serious cases, kidney failure.
Consumers are urged not to eat the affected mooncakes, and anyone who has already consumed them should monitor for symptoms and seek medical advice if necessary. The recall is ongoing, and consumers can contact the retailer for refunds or more information.
Speaking to HuffPost, Dr. Michael Greger emphasised that while E. coli infections often cause temporary discomfort, they can lead to more serious complications.
“Life-long complications of E. coli infection include end-stage kidney disease, permanent brain damage, and insulin-dependent diabetes,” he noted.
Such risks make it critical for consumers to be vigilant about food recalls and follow food safety guidelines to prevent contamination.
Bacillus Cereus Detected in Durian Mooncakes
Four Seasons Durian’s mini D24 durian mooncakes
The second mooncake recall in Singapore affects Four Seasons Durian’s Mini D24 Durian Mooncake, manufactured locally. During routine food safety checks, the SFA found contamination by Bacillus cereus (B. cereus), with levels exceeding the maximum allowed by Singapore’s food regulations.
In response, Four Seasons Durian had issued an apology and offered refunds for its mini D24 mooncakes.
B. cereus infections
B. cereus is a bacterium commonly present in soil, dust, and certain foods. Although generally harmless in small amounts, consuming food contaminated with high levels of B. cereus can lead to foodborne illnesses. Symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and diarrhoea can occur within hours of consumption. In some cases, the illness can last for up to 24 hours, though it is typically self-limiting.
The SFA has advised consumers not to consume any batches of this product. Those who experience symptoms after eating the mooncake should seek medical advice promptly. The recall is ongoing, and affected consumers can contact the point of purchase for more information or refunds.
Staying Informed on Mooncake Recalls in Singapore
These mooncake recalls in Singapore highlight the ongoing public health challenge of food safety, especially during festive seasons. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 1.6 million people globally suffer from foodborne illnesses every day. Young children are particularly vulnerable, accounting for 40% of the foodborne disease burden, despite making up only 9% of the global population.
Ensuring food safety is everyone’s responsibility, from manufacturers to consumers. The SFA’s regular sampling and monitoring of food products help prevent potential outbreaks, but consumers must also stay informed. Checking for food recalls, proper storage, and handling can reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses.
Visit the Singapore Food Agency’s official website for more details on food safety and recall updates.
Images credit: Singapore Food Agency
