Woman allegedly finds 'metal object' in Mui Kee congee, SFA reminds operator about food safety
A woman ordered congee for her family, but was shocked to discover a foreign object in the food.
Stomper Wong said she ordered takeaway food from Mui Kee's Shaw Centre outlet via the Foodpanda app on June 8.
“To my shock, I found a foreign metal object inside the congee – something sharp and potentially dangerous if swallowed,” the Stomper recounted.
"This was deeply concerning, especially as I was sharing the meal with my children. I immediately reported the issue to both Mui Kee and Foodpanda, providing clear photos and order details.
“However, Foodpanda only refunded the amount of that congee and did not respond further to my email, despite multiple attempts over several days.”
Wong shared screenshots of her text exchange with Mui Kee, and alleged that the restaurant responded to her feedback “slowly,” and "did not actively deal with the case”.
On June 9, Wong texted Mui Kee, "How can there be no reply at all?" The message was marked with double blue ticks, meaning Mui Kee had read the message.
A subsequent message was marked with double grey ticks, indicating that it was delivered to Mui Kee. Two follow-up messages sent in July show single grey ticks, which means the messages were not delivered to Mui Kee.
According to WhatsApp's website, single grey ticks can indicate that the receiver's phone is off, or that the receiver has blocked the sender.
“I suspect they blocked me on WhatsApp,” Wong added.
“Given the seriousness of this incident and the complete lack of accountability, I reported the case to the Singapore Food Agency (SFA).
“I believe it’s important for the public to be aware of such risks, especially when ordering from well-known brands through trusted platforms.”
In an update on July 25, Wong sent Stomp a message she received from Mui Kee, who informed her that the number she had contacted was no longer in use.
In response to a media query, Mui Kee told Stomp on July 23: “We are aware of the incident and have since responded to the customer. SFA has also conducted their investigation, and we are currently awaiting the official findings.
“We take such matters seriously and are committed to ensuring the highest standards of food safety and hygiene at all times. We will take appropriate actions based on the outcome of the investigation."
On July 24, SFA said in response to a Stomp query: “SFA has inspected the food establishment and did not detect any food safety lapses.
“Nonetheless, the food operator was reminded to ensure that all food sold must be wholesome, free of foreign matter and safe for consumption."
SFA said they take a serious view towards food safety and will investigate all feedback alleging poor food safety practices.
As part of enquiries and gathering of evidence, SFA may engage the feedback provider for more details and will not hesitate to take enforcement action if sufficient evidence has been obtained.
“Food safety is a joint responsibility,” the agency added. “While SFA puts in place and enforces the regulatory measures, food operators must play their part by adhering to good food hygiene and preparation practices.
“Food operators should also ensure their premises are clean and well-maintained."
Those with concerns about food safety practices by food operators should report to SFA on its website.
Stomp has contacted Foodpanda for more information.
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