METRO Group yesterday said its Chinese venture has become the first chain store operator in China to receive a global food safety certificate amid rising food safety awareness in the world's fastest growing economy.

Five stores in Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou and Wuhan managed by Metro Jinjiang Cash & Carry Co Ltd were awarded the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point certificates from SGS Corp, a Swiss-based third-party accreditation organization yesterday.

Metro has set up a food safety process in its outlets in China, borrowing from global practices. It includes hygiene standards, waste handling and cold chain control in all segment of store management, covering delivery, storage, processing and sales.