Food can be contaminated through production, retail and distribution services. It is therefore important to ensure the safety of food since consumers are the last link in the food supply chain. Consumption of contaminated food is capable of causing foodborne illness, thus food safety is of absolute importance.

Definition of Food Safety:
Unsafe food usually results from contamination due to biological hazards, chemical hazards, or physical hazards. To ensure food safety, establish standards that focus on controlling time and temperature, practicing good personal hygiene, maintaining a sanitary facility, preventing cross-contamination, and purchasing food supplies from approved suppliers. (Johnson Country Environmental Department, 2004)

The Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority (AVA) is the national authority for food safety in Singapore. To ensure food is safe in Singapore, AVA stringent expectations are often updated to comply with international standards.
However, Food Safety is a SHARED Responsibility. The government together with AVA works hand in hand with both food industry and consumers. It is the responsibility of the government bodies to ensure that food imported into Singapore is safe. BUT, it is our responsibility that foods prepared at homes are under clean and sanitized conditions.

As food safety is a major concern, it is therefore important to educate the society on this issue.

Food Safety Tips:

1. Appropriate storage conditions for foods; de-thaw in chiller, accurate storage temperatures.
2. Avoid cross-contaminations; use different chopping boards for cooked and raw food.
3. Washing of hands PROPERLY before handling food.
4. Cook food thoroughly; use a thermometer if needed.