'So gross': Maggots found in soup at Hougang restaurant

A man who says he discovered more than a dozen maggots in his herbal chicken soup while dining at a Hougang restaurant, claims his complaints were initially ignored by restaurant staff.

Leon Wee, a 29-year-old interior designer, told AsiaOne that he later took ill with vomiting and stomach pains.

However, after Mr Wee's TikTok video of the incident went viral, the restaurant contacted him through a private account to apologise, offering compensation of $128. They also requested that he take down the video, said Mr Wee.

His TikTok video of the incident garnered over 4,600 shares and more than 350 comments in just three days.

The incident took place at 9pm on July 30 at a Chinese eatery in Hougang Green Shopping Mall. Mr Wee said he had been dining with his girlfriend when he spotted about 15 to 20 maggots in the dish.

"It was so gross. There were so many of it inside the soup," he said. "They ignored it at first and didn't even check if I was alright, only offering to waive my dish which costs about $6 to $9."

He added that although he had visited the eatery a couple of times before, it was the first time he had experienced something like this.

"I won't be going back there anymore, that's for sure," he said. "I just hope my video helps raise awareness about what people consume when eating out."

Netizens outraged by restaurant's actions

Netizens were outraged at the restaurant's apparent irresponsibility and lack of food safety standards.

One netizen commented on TikTok: "I went to this place to eat before. This is terrible! I won't go there anymore."

"Exposing restaurants like this is the way to go. We need to be more aware and cautious," another added.

Lamenting on food safety standards across the board, another complained: "This is the standard in many food stalls now in Singapore."

SFA investigates the matter

The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) told AsiaOne that it is investigating the matter and emphasised that "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. Food operators should also ensure their premises are clean and well-maintained," said the agency.

It added that the agency has an online feedback form for members of the public to report any concerns about food safety practices by food operators.

Restaurant's response: Dish removed from menu

When reporters from Shin Min Daily News visited the restaurant on August 2, a representative, Ms Lee, said the restaurant had closed for a day on July 31 for deep cleaning. Staff members have also undergone retraining.

Ms Lee added that the affected dish has since been removed from the menu to prevent a repeat of the incident.