Government Subsidy for Healthier Essential Foods

Dr Chia Shi-Lu asked the Minister for Health whether the Health Promotion Board will consider extending a similar subsidy for healthier mix of palm and canola oil to alternatives of other essential foods, such as brown rice, which currently costs more than white rice.

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The Healthier Ingredients Subsidy Scheme was introduced in 2011 by the Health Promotion Board (HPB). This helped bridge the price differential between regular and healthier food ingredients. Besides cooking oil, the same scheme already covers brown rice and whole-grain noodles.

To improve the scheme's reach and effectiveness, it was extended this year from a small number of hawker centres to wholesalers that distribute healthier ingredients directly to multiple clients in the food service sector, food operators with central kitchens, and volume caterers. This approach helps Singaporeans who have their meals outside the home. The feedback HPB received thus far has been encouraging. We will review this programme regularly to benefit more Singaporeans.

In addition, to encourage the shift towards healthier eating habits, HPB has put in place a public education and marketing campaign. A major restaurant chain has, for instance, introduced brown rice as the default option for one of its signature dishes.

My Ministry welcomes and will continue to explore innovative ideas that encourage healthier eating.