Why Food Safety Course Level 1 Is Mandatory in Singapore
In Singapore, food safety is not optional — it is a legal requirement regulated by the Singapore Food Agency (SFA). Anyone handling food in the food & beverage (F&B) industry must complete Food Safety Course Level 1 before starting work.
Formerly known as the Basic Food Hygiene Course, this WSQ-accredited programme equips food handlers with the essential skills to prevent contamination and maintain hygiene standards in compliance with SFA regulations.
If you plan to work in a hawker stall, restaurant, café, catering service or central kitchen, this course is your first and most important certification.
What Is Food Safety Course Level 1?
Food Safety Course Level 1 is a foundational WSQ training programme designed for food handlers in Singapore.
Who needs this course?
This course is compulsory for:
Hawker assistants
Kitchen crew
Food preparation staff
Waitstaff handling unpackaged food
Catering helpers
Anyone directly involved in food handling
Without this certification, individuals cannot legally handle food in Singapore.
Course Duration & Assessment
Course duration may vary by training provider.
At Xprienz, the Food Safety Course Level 1 is conducted over 7.5 hours (1 day) in a physical classroom setting.
Mode of Training: Physical classroom
Assessment Methods:
Oral interview
Practical assessment
Written test
Participants must pass the assessment to receive the WSQ Statement of Attainment recognised by SFA.
Food Safety Course Level 1 Fees in Singapore
Here is the current course fee structure:
Full Course Fee (Before Subsidy)
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Course Fee (excluding GST): $150.00
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GST: $13.50
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Total Fee (including GST): $163.50
With 50% Funding (Eligible Singaporeans / PRs)
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Course Fee after funding: $75.00
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Fee payable (incl. GST): $88.50
With 70% Funding (Eligible SC ≥ 40 years old or SME-sponsored)
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Course Fee after funding: $45.00
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Fee payable (incl. GST): $58.50
Funding support is subject to eligibility criteria under prevailing SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG) guidelines. The above fees reflect Xprienz’s current course pricing and may vary across training providers.
Certificate Validity & Renewal
Upon passing the course, participants will receive a WSQ Statement of Attainment.
Certificate validity: 5 years
After 5 years: A refresher course or upgrade to Level 2 is required
Maintaining certification ensures continued compliance with SFA food safety standards.
Food Safety Level 1 vs Level 2 – What’s the Difference?
| Level 1 | Level 2 |
|---|---|
| For food handlers | For supervisors |
| 1 day training | Longer duration |
| Basic hygiene & handling | Supervisory responsibilities |
| Entry-level certification | Required for managerial roles |
If you are planning to advance to supervisory positions, Level 2 will be your next step.
Benefits of Completing Food Safety Course Level 1
Completing this course offers more than regulatory compliance:
✅ Meet SFA legal requirements
✅ Improve employability in F&B industry
✅ Build foundation for career progression
✅ Learn practical skills to prevent food contamination
✅ Enhance workplace hygiene standards
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Food Safety Course Level 1 compulsory in Singapore?
Yes. It is mandatory for all food handlers under SFA regulations.
How long does the course take?
The course runs for approximately 7.5 hours in a physical classroom setting.
Am I eligible for SkillsFuture or SSG funding?
Eligible Singapore Citizens and PRs may receive up to 50% or 70% course fee funding depending on age and sponsorship.
Is the certificate recognised?
Yes. It is a WSQ Statement of Attainment recognised by the Singapore Food Agency.
Ready to Enrol?
If you are starting your career in the F&B industry, completing Food Safety Course Level 1 is your first step.
🚀 Xprienz offers WSQ Food Safety Course Level 1 Singapore with hands-on training to ensure full compliance with SFA requirements.
Contact us today to secure your training slot.