Singapore introduces SAFE framework to replace restaurant food safety grades

The Singapore Food Agency will replace the current A–D annual grading system with the Safety Assurance for Food Establishment (SAFE) framework, covering about 45,000 licensed food establishments; rollout begins in phases from 19 January 2026.

The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) will introduce the Safety Assurance for Food Establishment (SAFE) framework to assess food safety performance at restaurants and other food outlets. This replaces the current annual grading system that assigns A, B, C or D ratings. The change affects an estimated 45,000 retail and non-retail SFA-licensed food establishments. Establishments will be classed as Category 1 or Category 2 based on the level of food processing or preparation involved. Key details: - SAFE will use three grades: A, B and C, awarded based on food safety track records and the use of food safety management measures. - The framework recognises long-term performance; an A grade in Phase I requires more than three years of a good track record with no major lapses. - Establishments operating for less than a year will be given a "New" grade to distinguish them from operators with established track records. - Restaurants with consistent good records will receive higher grades, while those with poorer records will receive lower grades and face more frequent inspections. - Category 1 establishments, which involve higher-risk or larger-scale processing, must meet two additional food safety requirements to attain or maintain an A grade; SAFE will be introduced in two phases to allow time for compliance. - From Phase II, Category 1 establishments will need to appoint an advanced food hygiene officer (AFHO) and implement a food safety management system (FSMS) to attain or keep an A grade. Summary: The SAFE framework shifts the assessment to a combination of track record and formal safety measures, and it will be rolled out in phases starting 19 January 2026. SFA said the approach is intended to recognise establishments that consistently maintain high standards and that it will engage with industry during the transition.