Channel NewsAsia 29 Apr 16;
SINGAPORE: The Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority of Singapore (AVA) on Friday (Apr 29) clarified that white spots found on prawns purchased by a consumer were not caused by a viral disease, but are actually part of its reproductive organ.
This comes after a Facebook post by Ms Winnie Tan on AVA's initial reply to her made its rounds on social media. On Wednesday, Ms Tan posted a photo on Facebook showing white spots on prawns, with AVA stating that the spots were caused by "the infection of white spot disease".
"This is a viral disease which attacked the shrimp. You may wish to discard the shrimp away," AVA told Ms Tan.
As of Friday night, the post has been shared almost 3,000 times.
In its clarification, AVA apologised for providing the wrong information before investigations had been completed.
"The initial assessment was based on photographic evidence provided by the consumer. However, subsequent investigations based on samples collected have determined that the white spots are actually part of the reproductive organ, and are not due to a viral disease," AVA said, adding that it would like to assure the public that there is no cause for alarm.
AVA has also reached out to Ms Tan to inform her of the clarification.
- CNA/dl