Can a recipe be stolen?


If you reproduce a published recipe in the public domain, it is always best practice to give credit. — YAROSLAV SHURAEV/Pexels

A little over a month ago, a scandal shook the cookbook world. It all began when Masterchef UK alumna Elizabeth Haigh released her inaugural cookbook Makan in May this year, in tribute to her Peranakan lineage (her mother is Nyonya and originates from Singapore).

A few months later, the book was pulled from bookshelves after Singaporean cookbook author Sharon Wee alleged that Haigh had plagiarised at least 15 recipes and – even more shockingly – memories from her cookbook, Cooking in a Nyonya Kitchen, published in 2012.

Get 20% OFF The Star Digital Access

Monthly Plan

RM 13.90/month

RM 11.12/month

Billed as RM 11.12 for the 1st month, RM 13.90 thereafter.

Best Value

Annual Plan

RM 12.33/month

RM 9.87/month

Billed as RM 118.40 for the 1st year, RM 148 thereafter.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!

Next In Food News

Mushroom peanut congee for Mothers Day
Evolution of the humble scone
Chef champions secondary cuts at culinary showcase in KL
Sushi Summit returns to KL with world-class sushi chefs
Sardines inspire culinary creativity
Roast goose promotion brings exquisite flavours to PJ dining
Strawberries, tea for a delightful afternoon repast
Getting the scoop on Malaysian tastes
Contemporary dimension to traditional Cantonese cuisine
Enduring crunch of cracknels

Others Also Read