How The Law Tackles Food Wastage in Singapore

Food security means more than simply having enough to eat, it is about ensuring that everyone in our society has access to safe, nutritious food on a consistent basis. 

In Singapore, where resources are limited and global supply chains are increasingly uncertain, safeguarding our food supply has become an urgent priority. Our government has adopted a multi-pronged approach to boost our food security, supporting both food, safety and food donation through legislation. 

One of the newest developments is the Good Samaritan Food Donation Bill, which was introduced in August 2024. This new law encourages the safe redistribution of surplus food, providing donors with an ease of mind, and motivating people who were initially hesistant to take the first step to go for it.

The Challenge: Food Wastage and Food Insecurity in Singapore 

Food wastage and food insecurity may appear to be separate issues, but in truth, they reflect a deeper imbalance in how resources are used and distributed. 

In 2024 alone, Singapore generated 784,000 tonnes of food waste, accounting for approximately 12% of the nation’s total waste output. 

At the same time, there are individuals and families in our communities who continue to face food insecurity, experiencing uncertainty about where their next meal may come from, or lacking regular access to safe, nutritious food. 

While upstream improvements in food production and procurement are essential, there is also a meaningful opportunity downstream: redistributing surplus food responsibly before it goes to waste.

Encouraging food donations, particularly from manufacturers, caterers, and retailers, is one way to close this gap. When handled and managed safely, surplus food becomes more than just excess, it becomes a resource that supports those in need, eases pressure on our waste systems, and moves us one step closer to a more sustainable and inclusive society.

The Legal Framework to Strengthen Food Safety and Encourage Donations 

The Good Samaritan Food Donation Bill addresses fears that liability prevents individuals and businesses from donating safe, surplus food.

It shields donors from civil and criminal liability if donated food later causes illness, so long as they meet the following conditions

1. Food must be safe at the time of donation
2. Handling instructions and consumption limits must be shared
3. All food safety guidelines followed until handover.

This protection applies only to free donations, not private sharing or exchanges tied to services. The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) retains authority for any investigations but will not hold donors liable if requirements are met.

By removing this barrier, this new law boosts confidence for donors and enables food support organisations to scale up their efforts responsibly.

Community Partnerships: Food from the Heart's Role in Action 

New legislations does not mean immediate action or impact. Laws like the Good Samaritan Food Donation Bill can only create real change when paired with organisation ready to act on the ground. 

At Food from the Heart, we play a vital role in connecting policy and impact, by connecting surplus food with those who need it most safely and responsibly. 

Through programmes like Bread Run and Market Place, we reduce food waste and ensure that food never goes to waste. Through our Bread Run programme, surplus, unsold bread that would have otherwise been discarded by bakeries and hotels are instead collected by our volunteers and delivered to bread distribution points such as welfare homes. Our Market Place programme works with food retailers such as NTUC FairPrice, to recive packaging-damaged, near-expiry items. These items are then checked and sorted at our warehouse, before being distributed to welfare homes. 

These efforts align close with the intent of the Bill, ensuring that food is handled properly, reaches the right hands, and supports thos enavigating food insecurity with dignity. 

A Collective Win: Towards a More Resilient and Equitable Food System

When legislation and community action move in tandem, real progress becomes possible.

The Good Samaritan Food Donation Bill provies the legal assurance needed to unlock the potential of safe, surplus food, while community partnes like Food from the Heart ensure that this food reaches those who can benefit from it most. Together, these efforts offer a powerful solution. One that reduces food waste and supports those in need. Building a stronger, more compassionate Singapore. 

We invite you to play a part, from donating food to making a cash donation, every action contributes to a food system that is more inclusive, sustainable, and prepared to meet future challenges. At Food from the Heart, we believe that everyone has a role to play in creating a society where good food is never wasted and where everyone has access to what they need.