,"The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) has announced that it will implement the Safety Assurance for Food Establishments (SAFE) framework starting 19 January 2026, replacing the existing annual, snapshot-based food establishment grading system. The new framework introduces a risk-based, continuous assessment approach, under which food establishments will be graded based on their ongoing compliance track records and the effectiveness of their food safety practices.
Under the SAFE framework, food establishments with consistent and strong food safety compliance histories will be awarded higher grades, while establishments with poor compliance records will receive lower grades and be subject to more frequent inspections. This approach is intended to better reflect real-time food safety performance and incentivize sustained compliance.
The framework places additional requirements on establishments involved in significant food processing or preparation activities, such as food manufacturers and caterers. To attain or maintain a Grade “A”, these establishments will be required to appoint an Advanced Food Hygiene Officer (AFHO) and implement a Food Safety Management System (FSMS), which may be either certified or non-certified, depending on the applicable criteria.
Implementation of the SAFE framework will occur in two phases. Phase 1 will commence on 19 January 2026, focusing on the transition from the existing grading system to the new risk-based assessment model. From Phase 2, Category 1 establishments will need to demonstrate both a good compliance track record and compliance with AFHO and FSMS requirements in order to attain or retain a Grade “A”. Further details regarding Phase 2 implementation are expected to be announced by 2027.
The introduction of the SAFE framework represents a significant shift in Singapore’s food safety regulatory oversight, emphasizing preventive controls, accountability, and continuous improvement across food establishments."
Consumer News Region