Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre launches SEHHI programme for the community

Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre (ADPHC) has introduced the SEHHI programme to increase the community’s access to healthy food and promote awareness about healthy eating.

Three sub-programmes have been identified as part of SEHHI:

1. SEHHI on healthy menus, which involves placing the SEHHI logo on food menu items identifying healthy dishes with low fat, sugar and salt content, and higher fibre
2. Displaying calories on the menu, which will entail the addition of the caloric count on food menu items
3. SEHHI for healthy groceries and supermarkets, which will encourage the display and promotion of healthy foods and ingredients across food and beverage retail entities in Abu Dhabi

According to Abu Dhabi Media Office, a detailed classification process has also been put in place to identify foods that fall under the SEHHI programme, with the criteria considering calorie count, total fats, saturated and trans fats, sugar, salt, and fibre amounts.

Food outlets will also be able to upload details about their food items onto a digitised platform that will analyse the nutritional value of the dishes, identifying those that meet the SEHHI criteria.

Participating entities will receive guidance and training to ensure the optimal implementation of the programme. In parallel, the Abu Dhabi community will also be provided with information and guidance on making healthier food choices.

Matar Al Nuaimi, director general of ADPHC, said: “ADPHC is committed to the safety and wellbeing of every member of the Abu Dhabi community and nutrition undoubtedly plays a critical role in promoting overall health and has a profound impact on reducing the prevalence and burden of lifestyle diseases.

“As such, the launch of the SEHHI programme aligns with our vision towards a healthy, safe society by consolidating the efforts of various stakeholders in the ecosystem to ensure access to healthy foods and promote more informed and educated dietary choices.”