The UAE has begun implementing new national limits on sodium, processed sugar and fat in selected food products, in a move aimed at improving the nutritional quality of commonly consumed foods.
The rules cover packaged food manufactured locally or imported into the UAE, as well as businesses involved in production, processing, packaging, distribution, serving and sale. The first phase includes products such as bread, flatbread, sweetened milk drinks, flavoured yoghurt and laban, salted snacks, nuts, chips and processed cheese.
The limits will be introduced gradually rather than requiring an immediate reformulation of every product. Businesses must meet the first-stage requirements within specified periods and progressively reduce the targeted ingredients, with the final limits to be reached by the end of 2030.
The measure is primarily aimed at manufacturers and food businesses, rather than banning particular foods. Companies that fail to comply can face warnings, fines ranging from Dh5,000 to Dh500,000 and, in serious cases, temporary closure or cancellation of licences.