SINGAPORE — The Burger & Lobster branch at Jewel Changi Airport was on Tuesday (July 5) cleared to resume operations, more than a month after its licence was suspended due to gastroenteritis cases.

A total of 131 people fell ill after consuming food prepared by the restaurant between May 7 and 15, said the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) and Ministry of Health (MOH) in a joint media release on Tuesday.

This is an increase from the previously reported figure of 17 people who fell ill. Five of them were hospitalised.

Burger and Lobster at Jewel Changi Airport has since complied with measures set out by SFA after the outlet was suspended on May 16, said the authorities.

They added that the company has disposed of all ready-to-eat food, thawed food and perishable food items. It also cleaned and sanitised the premises, including equipment and utensils, and disinfected food preparation surfaces, tables and floors.

In addition, all food handlers working there were required to re-attend and pass the Food Safety Course Level 1 and test negative for foodborne pathogens before they could resume work.

The appointed food hygiene officers working at the restaurant were also required to re-attend and pass the Workforce Skills Qualifications' Conduct Food and Beverage Hygiene Audit course.

"Following the lifting of the suspension, SFA will continue to place Burger and Lobster Singapore Pte Ltd under close surveillance to ensure that they adhere to food safety requirements," said the authorities. CNA