The United Arab Emirates has commenced the implementation of new limits on sodium, sugar, and fat across selected packaged food products to combat obesity and noncommunicable diseases.
The resolution, announced by the Ministry of Health and Prevention, introduces phased nutritional reductions for both locally manufactured and imported goods, including products handled in free zones. Food establishments failing to comply with the established limits face administrative penalties ranging from official warnings to fines between Dh5,000 and Dh500,000. Authorities also hold the power to close violating establishments for up to six months or cancel their operating licenses entirely.
The targeted products are divided into two primary groups. The first group includes bread, sweetened milk drinks, flavoured yoghurt, and salty snacks, with businesses given a nine-month window to meet initial phase limits. The second group focuses on processed cheese, allowing a compliance period of up to two years and three months. All affected companies must achieve the final maximum reduction limits by December 31, 2030. The regulations encompass the entire food supply chain, excluding products manufactured solely for export outside the UAE.
