Burger & Lobster Jewel Changi Reopens After Licence Suspension, Premises Fully Sanitised

Burger & Lobster Jewel Changi Resumes Operations On 5 Jul

On 16 May, the Ministry of Health (MOH) and Singapore Food Agency (SFA) were alerted to a worrying case of food poisoning involving Burger & Lobster in Jewel Changi Airport.

They received reports of gastroenteritis involving 131 persons after dining there. The outlet was subsequently suspended as investigations were ongoing.

After almost two months, authorities have lifted the suspension as the outlet has implemented necessary measures to prevent a similar incident.

131 Burger & Lobster Jewel patrons fell ill

In a joint press release on Tuesday (5 Jul), the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) and the Ministry of Health (MOH) announced they had lifted the suspension of Burger and Lobster in Jewel Changi Airport.

Although it was initially reported that 17 patrons were affected, the final count swelled to 131. Five had to be hospitalised.

Once the suspension period began, the outlet obeyed the measures imposed by SFA. Staff also disposed of all ready-to-eat food, thawed food, and perishable food items.

Additionally, the entire premise has been cleaned and sanitised, including equipment and utensils.

They also disinfected food preparation surfaces, tables, and floors to maintain a high standard of food hygiene.

Outlet remains under close surveillance

Burger & Lobster’s operations can be resumed under close surveillance to ensure the outlet continues to meet food safety requirements.

In light of this, SFA and MOH also took the opportunity to remind customers to practise good personal hygiene at all times, such as:

• Washing hands with soap and water before eating and after visiting the toilet
• Covering mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, and throwing the tissue into a bin immediately
• Not sharing food or drinks, eating utensils, toothbrushes or towels with others

Food operators were also reminded to always uphold personal hygiene and safety practices.

Anyone found to be in violation of the Environmental Public Health Act, authorities will not hesitate to take firm action.

Importance of food safety

When operating a food and beverage business, it’s important for all staff to be strict with food safety practices.

As evident from this episode, a single lapse could cause many to suffer the consequences of contamination from improper practices, putting them at an increased risk for serious health conditions.

Hopefully, this will be the last time the outlet has to undergo a suspension like this.

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Featured image adapted from Eatbook.