A Farm-to-Table Recognition Programme wobbler. Credit: ONE°15 Marina
Summary:
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Singapore has been working towards our 30 by 30 goal – to build the capability and capacity to sustainably produce 30% of our nutritional needs locally by 2030. But even as we work to ramp up the supply of local produce, it is just as important to ensure there is sufficient demand offtake. This way, local farms can stay economically viable and continue to produce food to bolster our food security. This is where all of us, the government, industry and consumers alike, can play a role.
Launch of Farm-to-Table Recognition Programme
The Farm-to-Table (FTT) Recognition Programme was launched on 27 March 2023 to recognise food businesses in the Hotel, Restaurant and Catering (HoReCa) sector that support local produce.
Official launch of the Farm-to-Table Recognition Programme on 27 March 2023
The programme consists of a FTT Recognition Programme Logo that recognises HoReCa businesses that adopt sustainable practices by procuring locally farmed produce. The logo is awarded to HoReCa businesses that procure at least 15 per cent of their fresh produce ingredients from local farms for the following food categories: hen shell eggs, leafy vegetables, beansprouts or fish. The percentage is calculated by procurement value (SGD$).
There are three award tiers, with businesses procuring local produce in more food categories given a higher award tier:
| Base Tier: HoReCa businesses that procure at least 15% of local produce in one food category. |
| Mid Tier: HoReCa businesses that procure at least 15% of local produce in two food categories. |
 | Highest Tier: HoReCa businesses that procure at least 15% of local produce in three or more food categories. |
At the launch, 11 food businesses in the HoReCa sector were recognised.
Eleven food businesses in the HoReCa sector were awarded the Farm-to-Table Recognition Programme logo at the launch on 27 March 2023
The FTT recognition programme is the result of close collaboration between the government and industry. It was developed in partnership with the Association of Catering Professionals Singapore, the Restaurant Association of Singapore and the Singapore Hotel Association.
Other than these partnering industry associations, the Alliance for Action (AfA) for Local Produce Demand Offtake and Consumer Education, and the Sentosa Carbon Neutral Network, a business alliance comprising hotels, F&B outlets and attractions driving Sentosa-wide sustainability efforts, also contributed their views on the programme.
“Did you know?” The AfA for Local Produce Demand Offtake and Consumer Education was formed in February 2023 to look into demand and supply aggregation of local produce and build greater support for local produce through consumer education. As part of ForwardSG conversations, the agri-food industry, supported by SFA and other government agencies, has come together to explore ways to increase the commercial offtake of local agricultural produce, and encourage consumers to support local produce. |
Why should HoReCa food businesses choose local produce?
There are many reasons food businesses should choose local produce. Local produce is fresher, lasts longer and there is less wastage as it is transported over a shorter distance. So customers will be able to enjoy fresh and sustainable produce!
Food businesses can also use the FTT logo door decals or wobblers to brand and market their businesses as being environmentally conscious, using fresher produce and supporting Singapore’s food resiliency. With the logo, consumers will be able to easily identify food establishments that source from local farms and are committed to sustainability.
A food business in the HoReCa sector displaying the FTT logo at its premises. Credit: Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa
Apply or pledge today
The FTT Recognition Programme is a step towards helping consumers identify and support local produce more easily. The programme logo is awarded on an application basis without any fees, and each application is valid for two years. HoReCa businesses that require more time to apply for the programme may pledge their commitment towards supporting local produce and achieving the FTT logo via the Farm-to-Table Pledge. We look forward to more food businesses coming onboard to build a sustainable and resilient food future for Singapore!
