The six coffee shops in Singapore were suspended last Friday (21 Feb) after accumulating at least 12 demerit points in one year. These coffee shops were penalised for various offences, with one common violation being the failure to maintain clean toilets.
According to the Singapore Food Agency (SFA), the coffee shops that were suspended are located across Singapore. The specific coffee shops that were affected include:
- Teck Wah coffee shop at Block 8 Lorong 7 Toa Payoh
- 1002 Food Court at Block 1002 Toa Payoh Industrial Park
- Teck Seng coffee shop at 588F Balestier Road
- 7 Stars at Block 312A Sumang Link
- 27A Coffee Shop at 517 Geylang Road
- Al Mubin Restaurant at 92 Syed Alwi Road
Three coffee shops, 27A Coffee Shop, 7 Stars, and Teck Wah faced three offences each of failing to keep their toilets clean. As each offence carried a penalty of four demerit points, these coffee shops accumulated a total of 12 demerits each over a period of 12 months. In addition to the suspension, they were also fined $1,300 each.
Two other coffee shops, Al Mubin and Teck Seng, also accumulated 12 demerit points each. Al Mubin had one offence related to toilet hygiene and two offences regarding the maintenance of sanitary fittings. Teck Seng faced two toilet cleanliness offences and one sanitary fittings violation. Both coffee shops incurred a fine of $1,100 each.
The last coffee shop, 1002 Food Court, accumulated 14 demerit points over a year. Among its violations were two incidents of failing to maintain clean toilets and one instance of not providing basic amenities like toilet paper and soap. It was fined $1,200.
In response to these hygiene infringements, the SFA highlighted that coffee shops or eating houses accumulating 12 or more demerit points over 12 months could face suspension for up to three days. The SFA emphasized the importance of maintaining good food and personal hygiene practices, ensuring the employment of registered food handlers, and the proper upkeep of licensed premises. The public is also encouraged to report any poor food safety practices they encounter in food establishments.
To report any violations or poor food safety practices observed, members of the public can do so via SFA’s online feedback form or by calling the SFA Contact Centre at 68052871.
