SINGAPORE: The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) has launched an urgent investigation following the circulation of a video on social media platforms depicting a rat on a tray at the Tangs Market food court in Tang Plaza on Orchard Road.
The 55-second video, initially posted on the “Singapore Laughs” Facebook page, quickly went viral, sparking widespread concern about hygiene and safety at one of the prominent dining spots in the city. Diners in the footage can be seen pointing out the rodent to each other, prompting shock and disgust among some patrons.
While the exact time and date of the incident remain unspecified in the post, the video suggests that customers were initially unaware of the rodent’s presence. However, as awareness spread, the atmosphere in the food court shifted, with shock and discomfort becoming palpable among some patrons.
The video, originally from Chinese social media platform Xiaohongshu according to a watermark, shows a sizable rat lying on a tray amidst seemingly untouched food in the middle of the food court. The original user, however, appears to have deleted the post from their page.
In the footage, the initially motionless rodent begins twitching and moving its paws intermittently, prompting speculation about its condition. Whether the rat was injured or simply resting remains unclear.
The SFA has officially confirmed the launch of an investigation into the incident. In response to the video, the agency emphasized the shared responsibility for ensuring food safety. SFA has enforced regulatory measures, and food operators must adhere to stringent hygiene and preparation practices.
“Food safety is a joint responsibility. 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,” stated the SFA in a press release.
The agency further underscored its commitment to taking enforcement actions against any food operators violating established standards. The investigation aims to uncover the circumstances surrounding the rodent’s presence in the food court and assess whether any lapses in hygiene or safety protocols occurred.