SINGAPORE: As global supply shocks continue to hit food-importing countries, the government has taken another step to help ease the impact of escalating prices.

It has set up a committee to study how the country can ensure stability in long-term food supply. The committee will be led by the Ministries for National Development, and Trade and Industry.

When the avian flu struck the region in 2004, Singapore companies which had buffer stocks of frozen poultry in their cold stores were able to do business as usual.

Speaking at the Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority's (AVA) Food Safety Awards Night 2008 on Friday, National Development Minister Mah Bow Tan said food companies here need to develop similar business continuity plans in case of a break in supply.

Singapore is already importing food from more countries and has turned to frozen meat as a cheaper alternative.

Among its plans, the new inter-agency committee will examine Singapore's farming policy while investing in food production overseas.

Mr Mah said: "We need to recognise that many of the factors that are affecting the food supply situation today are not temporary ones. In fact, there are also medium-term and long-term issues and structural ones that are taking place."

However, he said the top priority is to ensure that the food we eat is safe. The AVA closely regulates the food that we consume, but Mr Mah said businesses too need to take the initiative.

As consumers' tastebuds become more discerning, it makes business sense for food establishments to maintain high standards. - CNA/vm