Baker’s Cottage’s Snow Skin Signature Yam Mooncake has been recalled after the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) detected excessive levels of Escherichia coli (E. coli) in the product, the agency announced on Sep. 13. The Malaysian bakery attributed the contamination to mishandling during transit and storage at a third-party warehouse in a statement released two days later.
Background
During routine regulatory sampling, the SFA found E. coli levels in the snow skin mooncakes that exceeded Singapore’s food safety standards. As a precaution, the importer, Ewayz Pte Ltd, was instructed to recall the affected products. The mooncakes have an expiration date of Dec. 31, 2024. Consumers who have purchased these mooncakes are advised not to consume them and to seek medical advice if they have health concerns. Enquiries can be directed to the point of purchase.
Singapore Food Agency findings
The SFA’s sampling revealed that the E. coli levels in the mooncakes surpassed the permissible limits set by Singapore’s food regulations. Consequently, Ewayz Pte Ltd was directed to recall the implicated products. The agency also advised consumers to avoid consuming the affected mooncakes and to consult a doctor if they have health concerns.
Mishandling at a third-party warehouse
Baker’s Cottage stated that while they ensured compliance with SFA standards before exporting to Singapore, mishandling during transit and storage at a third-party warehouse might have led to the product’s deterioration. The bakery expressed regret over the situation and committed to taking immediate steps to rectify it. They emphasised that product safety remains their highest priority and that measures will be implemented to prevent similar issues in the future.
E. coli is a bacteria commonly found in the intestines of people and animals and can be introduced during the production process through cross-contamination. While most strains of E. coli are harmless, some can cause severe stomach cramps, bloody diarrhoea, and vomiting.
Durian mooncakes were recalled just a day prior
On Sep. 12, the SFA also recalled Four Seasons Durian’s Mini D24 Durian Mooncake after detecting Bacillus cereus (B. cereus) at levels exceeding Singapore’s food safety standards. Similarly, Four Seasons Durian Pte Ltd was directed to recall the affected products.
Related recalls and future implications
The recent recalls highlight the importance of stringent food safety measures and the potential risks associated with mishandling during transit and storage. Both Baker’s Cottage and Four Seasons Durian have pledged to take corrective actions to prevent future occurrences. Consumers are urged to stay informed about food safety advisories and to report any concerns to the relevant authorities.
