Food imported illegally from Malaysia seized after joint operation on delivery trucks
The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) seized about one tonne of fresh and processed produce illegally imported from Malaysia in a joint operation with the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA).
The July 17 and July 18 operation was conducted on delivery trucks that are "typically used to transport produce and food products intended for direct distribution to retailers and customers," said SFA.
During the operation, ICA officers at Woodlands Checkpoint noticed discrepancies in the consignment transported by two trucks and referred them to SFA for further checks.
SFA found undeclared and under-declared produce such as bayam, tomato, lady finger and peeled hairy gourd imported by two importers in the two trucks.
All illegally imported produce were seized.
SFA said it is following up with further investigations and will not hesitate to take enforcement action.
It added: "Food imported into Singapore must meet SFA's requirements.
"Fruits and vegetables can only be imported by licensed importers, and every consignment must be declared and accompanied with a valid import permit.
"Illegally imported vegetables are of unknown sources and can pose a food safety risk (e.g. if unregulated or high level of pesticides are used)."
SFA noted that long-term ingestion of excessive pesticide residues through the consumption of vegetables that have been subjected to pesticide abuse could lead to adverse health effects.
Offenders who illegally import fresh fruits and vegetables can be fined up to $10,000 and/or jailed for up to three years.
Those who illegally import processed fruits and vegetables can be fined up to $1,000. In the case of a subsequent conviction, they can be fined up to $2,000.
View more photos in the gallery.
Explore more on these topics
See something interesting? Contribute your story to us.
