Achieve A-Grade Food Safety
ISO 22000 is an international standard that establishes a comprehensive Food Safety Management System (FSMS) across the entire food supply chain. It helps organisations identify, control, and prevent food safety hazards through structured processes, risk-based thinking, HACCP principles, and continuous improvement to ensure food is safe for consumption.
In Singapore, the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) oversees food safety and encourages the adoption of robust FSMS practices, and ISO 22000 certification is recognised as a credible way for food businesses to demonstrate strong food safety commitment, regulatory alignment, and higher assurance to customers and stakeholders.
As the landscape of food safety in Singapore evolves, staying ahead of regulatory changes is more important than ever. From 19 January 2026, the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) will introduce the Safety Assurance for Food Establishments (SAFE) framework, marking a significant shift in how licensed food establishments are graded and assessed.
What’s Changing with SAFE?
Under the SAFE framework, the traditional ‘A–D’ annual grading system is being replaced with a more robust approach that reflects an establishment’s long-term food safety performance and risk management practices:
Grades are based on food safety track records
Consistent compliance over time earns higher grades (A, B, or C), with new establishments assigned a ‘NEW’ grade until they have sufficient operating history.
Track records matter
Major lapses such as licence suspensions or convictions can immediately drop a grade.
Enhanced requirements for higher-risk businesses
Category 1 establishments (e.g., manufacturing and large kitchens) will need to appoint an Advanced Food Hygiene Officer (AFHO) and implement a Food Safety Management System (FSMS) to achieve or maintain top grades.
Greater transparency for consumers
Food safety grades will be accessed digitally via SFA’s track records portal or by scanning the QR code on the establishment’s licence.
This new approach rewards consistent excellence, empowers customers to make informed choices, and encourages establishments to adopt stronger food safety systems.
Why ISO 22000 Matters:
ISO 22000 is an international standard for FSMS. Having ISO 22000 helps food businesses under SAFE because it:
- Meets the FSMS expectations for better grading outcomes
- Strengthens control over food safety hazards
- Shows customers and partners a strong commitment to food safety
- Supports continuous compliance and improvement
