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UAE launches Food Control System assessment in collaboration with FAO

A five-day workshop at MOCCAE headquarters trained over 50 food safety officials on the FAO/WHO Food Control System Assessment Tool.

UAE launches Food Control System assessment in collaboration with FAO
[Source photo: Krishna Prasad/Fast Company Middle East]

The UAE has launched an in-depth assessment of its national food control system in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). The five-day workshop, which concluded today at the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) headquarters, trained over 50 officials from various food safety agencies nationwide on utilizing the FAO/WHO Food Control System Assessment Tool.

The evaluation covers nearly 160 criteria, from policy to traceability, aiming to align the UAE with international standards and boost trade competitiveness.

His Excellency Dr. Mohammed Salman Al Hammadi, Assistant Undersecretary for the Food Diversity Sector at MOCCAE, emphasized the initiative’s crucial role in strengthening the UAE’s food security. He explained that the project aims to evaluate the current food safety system, identify areas for improvement, and align local regulations with international standards. The review will focus on key areas such as food legislation, inspections, monitoring of imported goods, food laboratories, and animal feed safety.

Kayan Akram Jaff, Head of Mission of the FAO Subregional Office for the GCC States and Yemen, emphasized FAO’s commitment to supporting the UAE’s efforts. “The FAO/WHO Food Control System Assessment Tool is a comprehensive framework that will help identify gaps and opportunities for improvement, ensuring the UAE’s food safety system meets international standards and supports trade.”

The workshop gave participants the essential expertise to conduct the assessment, ensuring a data-driven approach to refining the national food control system. The resulting findings are expected to lead to strategic recommendations, enhancing the UAE’s food safety governance and bolstering its regional and international trade standing.

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