SINGAPORE — A home-based bakery has been prohibited from distributing and selling food after 15 people reported gastroenteritis symptoms from having consumed food that it had prepared.

In a joint news release on Friday (Aug 13), the Ministry of Health (MOH) and Singapore Food Agency (SFA) said that they were investigating the incident involving The Peachy Sugarmaker.

“Nine cases have been hospitalised and are in stable condition,” they added.

A check online showed that the home-based business sells pastries and cakes.

The 15 people reported having gastroenteritis symptoms after consuming the food on Aug 5 and 7.

Gastroenteritis, commonly associated with food poisoning or “stomach flu”, is the inflammation of the stomach or the intestines, with sufferers having symptoms of diarrhoea and vomiting.

“In view of the suspected ongoing transmission, SFA has prohibited the distribution and sale of food prepared by The Peachy Sugarmaker with effect from Aug 13 until further notice,” both agencies said.

They stressed that food safety is a joint responsibility.

“SFA would like to remind food operators, including home-based businesses, to observe good food and personal hygiene practices at all times.

"SFA will not hesitate to take firm action against anyone found to be in violation of the Sale of Food Act or the Environmental Public Health Act, or both.”