Written Reply to Parliamentary Question on Removal of Masks and Spit Guards

Question:

Mr Yip Hon Weng: To ask the Minister for Sustainability and the Environment (a) what data regarding the efficacy of masks and spit guards prompted their removal as a requirement for food handlers from 1 January 2026; (b) how will the risk of aerosolised pathogen transmission be managed without physical barriers while preparing and handling food; and (c) whether food handlers with respiratory symptoms are legally required to wear masks or spit guards.

Answer:

SFA introduced the requirement for food handlers to wear masks and spit guards as part of the public hygiene measures in response to COVID-19.  We continued to maintain it in line with other public hygiene initiatives.

SFA conducts regular reviews of its requirements to ensure they remain relevant in addressing key food safety risks. SFA’s recent analysis of foodborne outbreaks found that the key risk factors for food contamination are inadequate sanitation, improper temperature management, and contact between raw and cooked food. Food handlers not wearing masks or spit guards pose a low food safety risk.

Nonetheless, food businesses should continue adopting food hygiene best practices. We encourage food handlers to wear masks or spit guards, and to do so properly to avoid them becoming potential sources of cross-contamination.

We discourage food handlers from handling food if they are unwell.