The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) recently published an updated guidance document for industry on the requirements for the safety assessment of novel foods and novel food ingredients. Businesses are encouraged to refer to the guidance document prior to submitting a novel food application to SFA.

SFA’s criteria for “novel food” includes any substance that has not been used to a significant degree within the last 20 years; has been manufactured, prepared, or preserved by a process that has not been previously used within the last 20 years; consists of, or is isolated or produced from, material of mineral origin that has not been used within the last 20 years; or a food that contains or consists of engineered nanomaterials. Under SFA’s definition, novel food does not include foods containing insect ingredients.

Businesses that intend to produce, manufacture, import, distribute and/or sell novel food or food products containing novel food ingredients in Singapore are required to ensure that the novel food or novel food ingredients:

• Have received premarket approval from SFA
• Meet the specifications and are produced in accordance with the manufacturing process declared in the safety assessment submitted to SFA
• Are only used in the food categories and/or products specified in SFA’s premarket approval, and in accordance with the proposed use levels for each food category and/or products described.

When in doubt about whether a food or ingredient is considered “novel,” companies are encouraged to consult with SFA. Businesses can provide evidence about the history of safe use for a food or food ingredient (used to a significant degree within the last 20 years), including the length of consumption/use of an ingredient; the extent, quantity, and purpose of its use; and evidence demonstrating lack of adverse effects to human health. Sources of evidence that could be considered include scientific and non-scientific publications, books (e.g., cookbooks or books on the history of food culture), patents, affidavits from two or more independent and reputable authorities, and other documentation.

Novel food products intended for sale in Singapore must comply with legal requirements, including regulatory limits, under the relevant legislation, including the Sale of Food Act, the Wholesome Meat and Fish Act, and their subsidiary legislation.

No approval is required from SFA to conduct research on novel food and novel food ingredients.