MOH and AVA Advise Public to Discard Chocolate Cakes from Prima Deli

03 Dec 2007

The Ministry of Health (MOH) was notified of a food poisoning incident on 23 November 2007. As more incidents were notified, epidemiological investigations indicated that the common food item between the various incidents were Prima Deli chocolate cakes purchased as early as 19 November 2007. To date, MOH has been notified of eight such food poisoning incidents associated with the consumption of Prima Deli chocolate cakes.

MOH and the Agri-Food & Veterinary Authority (AVA) conducted joint inspections of Prima Food Pte Ltd which produces the chocolate cakes for all Prima Deli retail outlets. Food and environmental samples were taken for laboratory analysis. Preliminary results on 03 December 2007 for the food samples are suggestive of Salmonella as the likely causative agent. Prima Food Pte Ltd has been instructed to stop the production of all chocolate cakes and to recall all these cakes from distribution and sale. Screening of food handlers is in progress. Investigations are ongoing to determine the source of the contamination.

As at 03 December 2007, there were a total of 106 cases including six hospitalised cases, all of whom have been discharged. Six cases tested positive for Salmonella Enteritidis. The last case had onset of illness on 26 November 2007.

Salmonella is a group of bacteria that can cause symptoms such as fever, watery diarrhoea, vomiting and abdominal pain. Onset of symptoms typically begins 6-72 hours after eating contaminated foods. Illness usually lasts 4-7 days and most recover with no long-term health effects. Severe cases may require hospitalisation for rehydration and/or antibiotic treatment.

The public is advised to discard any unconsumed chocolate cakes purchased from Prima Deli. Anyone with symptoms after consuming these cakes should seek immediate medical attention.

Members of the public can contact MOH at 1800-2254122 or AVA at 1800-2262250  if they have any enquiries.

For further information on salmonellosis, please visit MOH website at www.moh.gov.sg.

Ministry of Health

Agri-Food & Veterinary Authority

Ministry of National Development

3 December 2007