Singapore probes alleged illegal dog meat sale on social media

The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) has initiated an investigation into an allegation of illegal dog meat sales posted on a social media platform.

The agency said it has not approved the sale of any dog meat and stressed that all food imports must meet SFA requirements in response to media queries on Friday.

A social media post shared on Wednesday on the Facebook group named ‘Dogs Singapore’ was believed to have promoted various dog meat dishes for sale to the public.

The post has since been deleted.

SFA said illegally imported food products from unknown sources can pose a food safety risk.

“Meat and meat products can only be imported by licensed importers from SFA-accredited sources.

“It is an offence to sell meat and meat products that were imported without a valid licence or valid import permit,” it said.

According to SFA, offenders found selling illegally imported meat and meat products are liable, upon conviction, to a jail term of up to two years, a fine of up to S$50,000, or both.

Repeat offenders can be jailed for up to three years, fined up to S$100,000, or both.

“While SFA puts in place and enforces regulatory measures, food importers and retailers must play their part by ensuring that the food products they bring into Singapore for sale comply with SFA’s import requirements and are safe for consumption,” it added.