SFDA Recognised By WHO As Regional Centre For Nutrition Collaboration In Eastern Mediterranean Region

The World Health Organization (WHO) has named the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) as its Regional Centre for Nutrition Collaboration for the Eastern Mediterranean Region, which includes 22 countries. This recognition underscores SFDA's significant efforts in implementing effective food and nutrition policies aimed at enhancing public health, improving quality of life, and reducing non-communicable diseases.

Saudi Arabia's approach to eliminating partially hydrogenated oils from food products has been praised by WHO as a best-practice recommendation. Consequently, Saudi Arabia received an official certificate of recognition and now leads an international working group focused on replicating this success globally. The Kingdom is also among the first to effectively reduce salt consumption through legislation and regulatory measures.

This designation aims to advance the development of healthy food systems and promote healthier lifestyles through improved dietary behaviours. The centre will play a crucial role in building the capacity of WHO Member States, aiding them in implementing key WHO strategies. These strategies include reducing salt and sugar intake, eliminating partially hydrogenated oils, and restricting marketing of low-nutritional value foods to children.

The SFDA's expertise in applying nutrition-related policies that foster healthier food environments is well-recognized. This aligns with the objectives of the Health Sector Transformation Program, a core initiative of Saudi Vision 2030. The appointment highlights SFDA's distinguished track record in this field.

To achieve its ambitious goals, the centre will receive substantial support from WHO. This includes scientific and technical expertise, evidence-based guidance tools, reference materials, and approved training content. The centre will also coordinate closely with regional data centres to implement its objectives through strategic initiatives.

These initiatives involve organizing workshops for decision-makers on policy development, monitoring progress, forming expert scientific teams and task forces, and developing a comprehensive regional framework and action plan. Such efforts are designed to ensure effective implementation of nutrition policies across the region.

Building a Comprehensive Database

A key component of this initiative is developing a comprehensive regional database of nutritional components. This database will form a foundation for evidence-based recommendations that can guide policy decisions across member states. By doing so, it aims to create a robust framework for improving dietary habits regionally.

The centre's work is expected to significantly contribute to healthier food systems by promoting better dietary behaviours among populations in the Eastern Mediterranean Region. Through these efforts, SFDA aims to set an example for other countries in implementing effective nutrition policies.

With inputs from SPA