UAE cabinet issues new regulations for dairy, beverages and juices

01-Aug-2018 - Last updated on 02-Aug-2018 at 02:05 GMT

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, VP and PM, issued new Cabinet Resolutions on the monitoring of milk and dairy products, and juice and beverages. ©iStock

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) cabinet has issued new regulations for milk, other dairy and juice and beverage products, and the licensing of manufacturers.

On behalf of the Cabinet, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice-President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, issued Cabinet Resolutions No.s 29 and 30 on the UAE regulatory system for the monitoring of milk and dairy products, and on the monitoring of juice and beverages.

The two resolutions were published in the latest issue of the Official Gazette of the UAE.

Stricter licensing laws

Decision No. 29 of the Cabinet Resolutions stipulates that food suppliers shall only deal with registered and licensed companies or enterprises.

Suppliers must also obtain a “Certificate of Conformity” for products before putting them in the marketplace.

This measure is in accordance with the Emirates Conformity Assessment System (ECAS) and is in addition to obtaining the Emirates Quality Mark and ensuring that products continue to comply with applicable rules.

Juice and beverage standards

Resolution No. 30 stipulates that juice and beverage products must meet the approved standards and that product information on labels have to match the specifications. Furthermore, the resolution states that it must be ensured that images and phrases used on the packaging “do not contradict public morals and Islamic values”.

The resolution also stipulates that the quantity in the package must meet stated requirements, and that products shall be packaged in suitable containers that maintain food safety and protect its properties from deterioration.

The regulation also prohibits all stores or outlets in the UAE from the sale or promotion of any food product not registered with the ECAS.

Previously, Simon Penfold, general manager, Middle East and Africa at NZMP, told FoodNavigator-Asia that dairy protein demand is surging in the Middle East as active consumers eye health and wellness options.

Recently, the UAE’s quest to extend food shelf life also received a boost with the Dubai Central Laboratory approving a new study on the testing of the validity period of different types of food products.

Amin Ahmed Amin, director of the Dubai Central Laboratory Department, said that the study on the validity period of food products was in response to the sentiment of consumers.