UAE implements new food rules to combat high sodium and obesity

The Ministry of Health and Prevention in the UAE began enforcing new limits on sodium, sugar, and fat in packaged foods to address high obesity rates.

A national health survey revealed that 96.2 per cent of adults aged 18 to 69 consumed more sodium than recommended. The study also found that 27.3 per cent of people exceeded sugar limits, while 22.4 per cent of adults lived with obesity.

The government is introducing these restrictions in stages, requiring manufacturers and suppliers to meet stricter nutritional standards by December 31, 2030. The rules apply to both locally produced and imported packaged goods. Products like leavened bread, sweetened milk drinks, and high-salt snacks must meet initial requirements within nine months, while processed cheese has a longer period to comply. The final sodium limit for leavened bread will be 370 milligrams per 100 grams.

Authorities are also using school programs and healthcare partnerships to improve public health. The School Canteen Lab initiative in Sharjah involves students and parents in testing recipes to make healthy meals more appealing to children. Additionally, the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre partnered with the pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk to create a personalized weight management program.

Officials estimate that successfully tackling obesity could save 1.5 billion dollars in healthcare costs and add 51 billion dollars to the UAE's gross domestic product by 2031.