WSQ Singapore Food Safety Act & SFA Regulations

Question 1

Which government agency is responsible for ensuring the safety and quality of food in Singapore?

Accepted Answer

Singapore Food Agency (SFA)

Answer

The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) is the statutory board under the Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment responsible for ensuring that food sold in Singapore is safe, wholesome, and correctly labelled. SFA consolidated the food-related functions of the former AVA, NEA, and HSA.

Question 2

Under the Sale of Food Act (SFA Act), it is an offence to sell food that is:

Accepted Answer

Unsafe, adulterated, or not of the quality demanded by the purchaser

Answer

The Sale of Food Act makes it an offence to sell food that is unsafe (unfit for human consumption), adulterated (contaminated or debased), or not of the nature, substance, or quality demanded by the purchaser. Selling such food can result in fines and imprisonment.

Question 3

What is Singapore's primary legislation governing food hygiene standards in food establishments?

Accepted Answer

Environmental Public Health Act (EPHA) and Food Hygiene Regulations

Answer

The Environmental Public Health Act (EPHA) and its subsidiary legislation — the Food Hygiene Regulations — set out the hygiene standards, licensing requirements, and conduct rules for food establishments in Singapore. SFA and NEA enforce these provisions.

Question 4

What must all food establishments in Singapore obtain from SFA before commencing operations?

Accepted Answer

A valid food stall licence or food shop licence

Answer

All food establishments — whether hawker stalls, restaurants, cafes, or food manufacturers — must obtain the relevant licence from SFA (previously NEA for hawker stalls) before commencing operations. Operating without a valid licence is an offence.

Question 5

What is the 'Grade' system displayed in Singapore food establishments?

Accepted Answer

A hygiene grading system (A, B, C, D) awarded by SFA based on periodic inspections of cleanliness and food safety standards

Answer

Singapore's food hygiene grading system awards grades A, B, C, or D to food establishments based on SFA/NEA inspection results. Grade A indicates the highest standard of hygiene. Establishments must display their grade prominently. Poor grades can lead to suspension of licences.

WSQ Food Safety Practice Test

WSQ Food Safety Practice Test

WSQ Singapore Food Safety Act & SFA Regulations