Saudi Gazette report

RIYADH — The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially designated the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) as its Regional Centre for Nutrition Collaboration for the Eastern Mediterranean Region, which encompasses 22 countries.

According to an SFDA press release issued on Tuesday, this recognition highlights the authority's extensive efforts in implementing robust food and nutrition policies. These policies are designed to enhance public health, improve quality of life, and reduce the prevalence of non-communicable diseases.

This designation aims to bolster the development of healthy food systems and promote healthier lifestyles through improved dietary behaviors. The centre will also significantly contribute to building the capacity of WHO Member States, helping them implement key WHO strategies. These include reducing salt and sugar consumption, eliminating partially hydrogenated oils, restricting the marketing of low-nutritional value foods to children, and developing a comprehensive regional database of nutritional components, forming a foundation for evidence-based recommendations.

This appointment also highlights the SFDA's distinguished expertise and proven track record in applying nutrition-related policies and regulations that foster healthier food environments. It aligns directly with the objectives of the Health Sector Transformation Program, a core initiative of Saudi Vision 2030.

The WHO has particularly praised Saudi Arabia's approach to eliminating partially hydrogenated oils from food products, citing it as a best-practice recommendation. As a result, Saudi Arabia received an official certificate of recognition and now leads an international working group dedicated to replicating this success globally. Furthermore, the Kingdom is recognized as among the first countries to effectively reduce salt consumption and implement relevant legislation and regulatory measures.

To achieve its ambitious goals, the centre will receive substantial support from WHO, including scientific and technical expertise, evidence-based guidance tools, reference materials, and approved training content. It will also coordinate closely with regional data centers and implement its objectives through strategic initiatives.These include organizing workshops for decision-makers on policy development, monitoring and evaluating progress, forming expert scientific teams and task forces, and developing a comprehensive regional framework and action plan.