SFDA Collaborates With WHO For Regional Expert Meeting On Nutrition Policies In EMRO

The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) is hosting a significant meeting on nutrition policies for the Eastern Mediterranean Region. This event, held in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), takes place at the SFDA's headquarters in Riyadh from October 20 to 21, 2024. The aim is to boost efforts to improve nutritional standards across the region.

Dr. Hisham S. Aljadhey, SFDA's Chief Executive Officer, inaugurated the meeting by welcoming participants. He highlighted Saudi Arabia's dedication to promoting healthy nutrition through policy development and legislation. The Kingdom shares its expertise with other EMRO Member States to enhance their ability to tackle nutrition-related health issues.

Dr. Aljadhey underscored the importance of healthy food systems in enhancing public health and reducing economic burdens linked to nutrition-related diseases. He stressed that nutritional policies and legislation are vital for promoting sustainable food systems, which can significantly improve public health and quality of life throughout the region.

The meeting has attracted international experts in nutrition and economic policy, along with representatives from EMRO Member States. It serves as a platform for exchanging experiences, successes, and challenges related to nutrition policies. This gathering reflects SFDA's leadership in nutritional policies at both regional and international levels.

World Health Organization Representative Dr. Ayoub Al Jawaldeh praised Saudi Arabia's advancements in promoting healthy diets. He acknowledged SFDA's pioneering role in advancing nutrition, developing national health policies, and supporting WHO initiatives. Dr. Al Jawaldeh noted that this meeting provides an opportunity for sharing best practices and innovative approaches.

Dr. Aljadhey also emphasized the need for increased international and regional cooperation to strengthen food systems. This collaboration is crucial for achieving Sustainable Development Goals aimed at reducing malnutrition and preventing premature deaths due to chronic diseases.

The event highlights SFDA's strategic plan focused on enhancing its international leadership in nutritional policies and legislation. By fostering collaboration among experts, the meeting aims to share innovative solutions that can be applied across different regions.

This gathering underscores Saudi Arabia's commitment to improving public health through effective nutritional strategies. By working together with international partners, the Kingdom seeks to address pressing health challenges related to diet and nutrition.

With inputs from SPA