SFA finds ‘massive pest infestation’ at Proofer Bakery, orders business suspended and recall of products at 16 outlets

SINGAPORE — The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) has suspended the food business operations of Proofer Bakery after an inspection on Tuesday (Oct 26) found “massive pest infestation" at the food preparation areas of its MacPherson premises and in both its food delivery trucks.

It has also been directed by the authorities to recall its food products that have been sent to its 16 retail outlets, SFA said in a statement on Tuesday evening.

The suspension is with effect from Tuesday until further notice.

SFA said that “live cockroaches, rodent activity and dead rodents” were observed during an inspection of Proofer Bakery’s unit at KA Foodlink, a six-storey commercial building housing food businesses. The building is located at 171 Kampong Ampat off MacPherson Road.

TODAY understands that this is the address of the bakery’s central kitchen.

In addition, SFA said that it found “several lapses relating to the poor maintenance of the premises”.

“In the interest of public health, SFA directed the licensee of Proofer Bakery to rectify the lapses and take necessary measures to improve the food safety practices and the cleanliness of its premises.

“As a precautionary measure, SFA has also directed the company to recall the various food products at Proofer’s retail outlets.”

In a post at 6.19pm on its Facebook page named "Proofer Boulangerie", the bakery said on the same day that it is closed for the day’s operation to facilitate an “area cleaning process”.

“Business shall resume tomorrow,” the bakery said, without mentioning the suspension.

In its statement, SFA said that food safety is a “joint responsibility” and that it continues to be vigilant and works to ensure that “regulatory measures are in place and properly enforced”.

It stressed that all food operators should ensure that their premises are clean and well-maintained, and that workers are properly trained on proper food safety management.

It will take enforcement action against food operators who do not adhere to regulations or comply with food safety requirements.

“Offenders are liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding S$10,000 or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 12 months or to both,” it added.

Members of the public who come across poor hygiene practices in food establishments are advised not to patronise them. They may also provide feedback via SFA’s online feedback form.