Forum: Make it easier for young F&B entrepreneurs to prepare food

My sister and I, both teenagers, are concerned about the restrictions the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) has imposed on home-based food businesses. These restrictions prohibit the sale of home-prepared food at temporary fairs or events, requiring all products to be made in SFA-licensed kitchens.

As budding young F&B entrepreneurs, participating in food fairs is an excellent way for us to connect with customers, try new offerings, and gather feedback. Moreover, holding bake sales at special events to raise money for a good cause often fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility in a vibrant atmosphere.

We understand the importance of food safety and protecting consumer health. But these restrictions severely limit our ability to participate in such events, as even the cheapest cloud kitchens charge at least $70 an hour to rent. After factoring in this additional cost, we have found it impossible to price our goods affordably to generate a profit or donate the proceeds to a good cause.

Home-based businesses can prepare their food on-site at a food fair stall.  But this is unfortunately not feasible for baking businesses like ours because of specialised equipment and the time-intensive nature of baking.  We also typically participate in short “pop-up” events lasting two or three days, and setting up a full baking or cooking operation for such a short time would, unfortunately, be impractical and financially unfeasible. 

What saddens us most is that these regulations, though well-intentioned, seem to work against the Government’s stated commitment to empowering young F&B entrepreneurs like us.

Perhaps the Government can consider introducing grants to help young food entrepreneurs access cloud kitchens at subsidised rates or allow the preparation of less risky food items – such as baked goods without cream – in home kitchens.

I hope this letter draws attention to these pressing issues and encourages the SFA to consider finding a middle ground that protects public safety while supporting Singapore’s next generation of culinary entrepreneurs. 

Vera Zagorodnova