UAE sets new limits on salt, sugar and fat in packaged foods

UAE sets new limits on salt, sugar and fat in packaged foods

The United Arab Emirates has introduced new nutritional limits aimed at reducing the amount of salt, sugar and fat in packaged food products manufactured locally or imported into the country.

Under the new rules, food products that exceed the permitted levels of salt, sugar or fat could face regulatory action. UAE authorities said the measures seek to improve the nutritional quality of packaged foods and encourage manufacturers to reduce the use of ingredients linked to diet-related health risks.

Companies found violating the prescribed limits could face fines of up to Dh500,000 and may be ordered to suspend operations for up to six months. In serious cases, authorities could also revoke a company’s licence.

The new nutritional standards will come into force gradually, with manufacturers given time to reformulate their products and meet the requirements. Authorities have set December 31, 2030, as the deadline for full implementation of the new limits.

Under the phased restrictions, manufacturers will have to progressively reduce sodium, sugar and fat levels in bread. Similar reductions will apply to flatbread, with producers required to bring salt, sugar and fat content within the prescribed limits.

The regulations also cover dairy products and beverages. Sweetened milk and milk alternatives will face limits on added sugar, while sweetened yoghurt and laban, a traditional fermented dairy drink, will also have to comply with the new sugar thresholds.

Several snack categories will face tighter sodium requirements as well. Salted biscuits, processed nuts and pretzels will need to contain reduced levels of sodium. Potato-, vegetable- and grain-based savoury snacks will also have to meet specified limits for salt content.

The UAE authorities are expected to monitor compliance as the standards are introduced in stages. Food manufacturers and importers will need to adjust recipes, production processes and product formulations to meet the requirements before the final implementation deadline.