A SOCIAL media post complaining about the cleanliness of a food outlet in Kulim, Kedah, has since gone viral.
The outlet is believed to sell its food through an online delivery platform.
So, was the Kulim food outlet shut down over poor hygiene?
Verdict:
TRUE
Yes, the premises was ordered to close after an inspection found unsatisfactory hygiene, including rat droppings inside the outlet.
The Kedah Health Department said in a statement that the premises scored only 37.5% for cleanliness during the inspection.
Several serious non-compliance issues were identified, including dirty floors, walls and equipment, the presence of flies and rat droppings in the premises, according to the statement.
"The Kedah Health Department has taken enforcement action by ordering the premises to be closed under Section 11 of the Food Act 1983, effective Oct 26.
"A compound notice was also issued under the Food Hygiene Regulations 2009," read the statement.
The Department said it had taken note of the complaint that went viral on social media.
Following the complaint, an inspection was carried out on Oct 26, which found the claims to be well-founded.
"The Department takes any breach of food hygiene and safety requirements seriously.
"All food operators are reminded to always keep their premises clean, carry out pest control, manage food waste properly and comply with all food safety laws in force," it said.
The Department also stressed that online food delivery platforms play a critical role in the food safety chain.
Platform operators were advised to continue to strengthen their internal controls, including making sure the premises they list meet licensing conditions and other legal requirements.
"Cooperation from the platforms in taking appropriate action against premises found to have failed to comply with food safety and hygiene requirements, including considering delisting them, will help protect the health and safety of consumers," it said.
Members of the public are also advised to always choose clean and safe food premises and to channel complaints about food hygiene and safety through the Health Ministry's official channels.
