Singapore has established a new statutory board this month that aims to “strengthen food safety and security by enhancing regulatory oversight along the entire food supply chain and streamline processes for food safety”.
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| SFA aims to “strengthen food safety and security. (Photo from Burst) |
The new Singapore Food Agency (SFA) will fall under the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources (MEWR). The new board brings together food-related functions carried out by the former Agri-Food & Veterinary Authority of Singapore, the National Environment Agency and the Health Sciences Authority.
Masagos Zulkifli, Minister for the Environment and Water Resources, said: “Just like water security, food security is an existential issue for Singapore. Despite Singapore’s lack of natural resources and agricultural land, our officers have worked hard over the years to ensure that we have a secure supply of safe food. SFA will seize opportunities by turning the challenges into strategic advantages, just like what we have done for water. There is immense potential to transform our agri-food industry, develop our local enterprises and provide good jobs for Singaporeans.”
According to SFA, by consolidating resources, the board will be able to employ a more targeted approach towards food safety issues, as it has set an ambitious goal to meet 30% of Singapore’s nutritional needs by 2030.
Lim Kok Thai, CEO of SFA, explained: “Ensuring and securing a supply of safe food requires the joint effort of the government, industry and consumers. Collaboration and partnership with our stakeholders from farm to fork will be key to SFA’s success.”
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