Stallholder Khoo Lian Geok is also feeling the pinch at Methodist Girls ‘ School.
In her attempts to offer food that meets the health needs of students and in accordance with the Health Promotion Board ( HPB) rules, she uses wholegrain pasta for her dish.
However, the better option is almost twice as expensive as standard noodles.
For whole grain noodles, 3kg used to cost S$ 5 ( US$ 3.9 ). But then, that exact amount you charge S$ 9 or more, she said, adding:” Standard pasta are about S$ 4 cheaper”.
Canteen stallholders ‘ profits are being squandered by price inflation.
Many sellers told CNA they are struggling with the fees and only make between S$ 1, 500 and S$ 2, 000 ( US$ 1, 200 and US$ 1, 500 ) a month.
This is despite minimum rental prices that range from S$ 5 to S$ 15 per month.
School closures during holidays, restricted working time, and home-based teaching have also made it tough for them to keep a regular income.
These restrictions could be one of the causes of some students leaving their institutions and fewer people aspire to work.