January 2026

The costs of imported feeds and antibiotics have skyrocketed since Covid19. There is also additional cost incurred from state instructions to switch to a closed system. These, coupled with the drop in supply because of the swine flu and the continued demand for pork caused the price increase.

While our Hakka neighbours value bamboo shoots for their sweet, aromatic and crunchy texture, my family likes them spicy. The bamboo shoots served in my home are often paired with dried shrimp and chilli, perhaps influenced by our great-grandmother, a Nyonya.