UAE begins phased limits on salt, sugar and fat content in food products

The UAE has started implementing new limits on sodium, processed sugar and fat content in select packaged food products, as part of a national effort to improve nutrition and reduce obesity and other noncommunicable diseases linked to unhealthy diets.

 The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) said the rules apply to locally manufactured and imported packaged foods, as well as food establishments handling these products across the UAE, including free zones. The limits will be introduced in phases, with the final limits to be met by December 31, 2030.

 The first group includes leavened and flat bread, sweetened milk drinks, flavoured yoghurt and laban, and salty snacks such as crackers, nuts, pretzels and chips. The second group covers processed cheese. The limits vary by product and will become stricter in the final phase.

 Food establishments must meet the first-phase limits within nine months for the first group and within two years and three months for processed cheese. Products manufactured or imported before the rules took effect can remain on sale for up to one year or until their expiry date, whichever comes first. The rules allow establishments to apply for limited exceptions to the first-phase limits in certain cases, but all targeted products must meet the final limits by the end of 2030.

 Violations can result in a warning, fines ranging from AED 5,000 to AED 5,00,000; closure of the establishment for up to six months, or cancellation of its licence or approval, depending on the seriousness and recurrence of the violation.

(Manish Shiva is Special Correspondent with Prasar Bharati)

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