The UAE has amended plans to require manufacturers to provide a colour-coded system of nutritional data on all pre-packed food products in a bid to boost competitiveness in global markets.
The UAE Cabinet has amended the requirement for nutritional labelling from mandatory to voluntary, state news agency WAM reported.
Under the original standard, which was scheduled to become mandatory in early January, manufacturers were required to provide the nutritional data on all pre-packed food products.
According to WAM, the decision to amend the mandatory requirement will “remove logistical challenges and financial burdens on manufacturers and suppliers” to enhance the competitiveness of UAE products in regional and global markets.
Omar Suwaina Al-Suwaidi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology, said the ministry aims to stimulate the UAE’s industrial sector, especially the food and beverage industry which is integral to the food security ecosystem in the UAE.
He noted that the shift to optional implementation will lead to an estimated financial saving of AED1.4 billion across the sector by removing the need to modify the labels currently in use or in storage – costs which, he added, would ultimately be borne by the consumer.
He said: “This move is in line with the national strategy for industry and advanced technology to create a suitable and attractive business environment for local and international investors in the industrial sector, support the growth of national industries and enhance their regional and global competitiveness… the ministry has granted manufacturers the freedom to apply nutritional data specifications for products packaged in traffic light colours optionally.”
He added that this will improve the flow of food products, eliminate technical obstacles to trade, and remove additional costs on food products for consumers.
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