Food companies face fines up to Dh500,000 for breaching new sodium, sugar and fat limits

New limits on sodium, sugar and fat in selected food products took effect on 1 October, covering specified locally manufactured and imported products. The Ministry of Health and Prevention confirmed the rules are intended to improve nutritional value while preserving taste and texture. Implementation is phased through the end of 2030, giving manufacturers time to reformulate recipes. A ministry study found 96 per cent of those studied exceeded recommended salt consumption levels, with average sodium intake at about 5,000 milligrams daily compared to the recommended 2,000 milligrams. The ministry has developed a monitoring plan with health and regulatory authorities to oversee implementation through inspections, sampling and laboratory testing. Non-compliant businesses face warnings, fines ranging from Dh5,000 to Dh500,000, and administrative closure for up to six months. A business's licence or approval may also be cancelled in coordination with the relevant licensing authority. The Cabinet will issue a schedule of offences and administrative penalties on the proposal of the Minister of Health and Prevention.