The Saudi Food and Drug Authority confirmed that all food factories and warehouses must comply with the provisions of the Food System and its implementing regulations, and must not engage in the manufacturing or storage of food materials without obtaining the necessary official licenses. It pointed out that the safety of pilgrims’ food and medicine is a top priority, and there will be no leniency towards anyone who violates its systems and regulations.
The authority emphasized the importance of not storing products outside the boundaries of the licensed facility, not reopening facilities after closure without fulfilling all regulatory requirements and obtaining its approval, and not dealing with products that violate approved regulations and conditions. It stressed that this comes within the framework of enhancing food safety and protecting consumer health, especially during the Hajj season, in which the authority participates alongside many government sectors to serve the guests of the Most Merciful, in compliance with the directives of the wise leadership, which is keen to provide the best and finest services to those visiting the Two Holy Mosques, and to harness all human and technical capabilities and resources to serve them.
It explained that violations may expose offenders to penalties stipulated in the system, including fines of up to 10 million riyals, and/or imprisonment for up to 10 years, and/or preventing the violator from engaging in any food activity for up to 180 days, and/or canceling or suspending the license for a period not exceeding one year.
The authority clarified that adhering to the provisions of the Food System contributes to raising the level of compliance and enhances the safety of food products in circulation. It called on all facilities to comply with relevant systems and instructions. Reports of any observed violations can be made by community members by calling the unified number (19999).
