Stamford Catering Services was fined S$8,000 on May 20, 2026, following multiple outbreaks of gastroenteritis affecting more than 180 people after consuming its food on two occasions [1, 2, 3].
In October 2024, 160 people fell ill with gastroenteritis linked to Stamford Catering food. A joint inspection by the Ministry of Health and Singapore Food Agency (SFA) found significant food safety lapses, including stagnant water in the premises, a dirty walk-in chiller ceiling, and uncovered electrical sockets stained with food residue, which could attract pests [1, 2, 3].
Due to these violations, the SFA suspended Stamford Catering's food business operations from October 14 to October 29, 2024. The suspension was lifted on October 30 after the company completed the required remediation measures [1, 2, 3].
In February 2025, 22 people suffered suspected gastroenteritis after eating Stamford Catering food again, prompting another SFA inspection. Inspectors found further hygiene issues such as dirty food warmers, drink dispensers, ice makers, kitchen ceiling boards, and brown stains dripping from the exhaust hood [1, 2, 3]. Stamford Catering was directed to rectify these hygiene lapses and improve cleanliness after each inspection [1, 2, 3].
The SFA stated, "Food safety is a joint responsibility, as food can be contaminated anywhere along the food chain." The agency added that while it remains vigilant to enforce regulations, "the industry and consumers should also play their part" [1, 2].
Stamford Catering has a history of food safety concerns. In 2019, its food hygiene grade was downgraded to a C after a food poisoning incident that affected over 50 people. Inspections then revealed high bacterial loads and hygiene lapses [2].
Under Singapore's Food Sale Regulations, violators can face fines up to S$5,000 for each offence, with repeated breaches incurring daily fines of up to S$100 [3]. The S$8,000 fine against Stamford Catering covers multiple violations associated with the 2024 and 2025 outbreaks [1, 2, 3].
