The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has embarked on a thorough assessment of its national food control systems. This initiative, a collaboration between the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, underscores the UAE's dedication to public health and food security.
A Collaborative Effort
Over 50 representatives from various federal and local entities gathered for a five-day workshop at MOCCAE's headquarters in Dubai. Guided by FAO experts, participants delved into the FAO/World Health Organization (WHO) Food Control System Assessment Tool, a globally recognized framework that evaluates approximately 160 criteria related to food safety policies, legislative frameworks, monitoring and inspection systems, risk management, and traceability.
Commitment to Public Health
His Excellency Dr. Mohammed Salman Al Hammadi, Assistant Undersecretary for the Food Diversity Sector at MOCCAE, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, "Food safety is a fundamental pillar of the UAE’s National Food Security Strategy and plays a critical role in safeguarding public health." He highlighted that the project aims to assess the current status of food safety systems in the UAE and identify necessary actions to enhance existing systems in line with international best practices.
Holistic Evaluation
The assessment will cover various aspects of the UAE's food safety infrastructure, including:
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Legislative Frameworks: Reviewing and updating laws to ensure they meet international standards.
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Monitoring and Inspection Systems: Evaluating the effectiveness of current inspection protocols and identifying areas for improvement.
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Risk Management: Implementing strategies to proactively identify and mitigate potential food safety hazards.
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Traceability: Enhancing systems to track food products throughout the supply chain, ensuring swift responses to any safety concerns.
Global Expertise
Kayan Akram Jaff, Head of Mission of the FAO Subregional Office for the GCC States and Yemen, expressed support for the initiative, stating, "Through this collaboration with MOCCAE, we aim to support the UAE in strengthening its food control system." He noted that the FAO/WHO Food Control System Assessment Tool would help identify gaps and opportunities for improvement, ensuring the UAE’s food safety system meets international standards and supports trade.
Looking Ahead
As the UAE continues to position itself as a global hub for trade and tourism, ensuring the safety and quality of its food supply remains paramount. This comprehensive assessment reflects the nation's proactive approach to public health and its commitment to continuous improvement in line with global best practices.