New food rules in Saudi: What you need to know about them

The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has announced new technical regulations aimed at enhancing food transparency and empowering consumers to make informed dietary choices when dining out. The regulations will take effect on July 1, 2025.

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Under the new rules, food establishments—both physical and online—must include detailed nutritional information on all menus. Among the key requirements is a new “saltshaker” label for meals high in sodium, visible caffeine content disclosures for beverages, and an indication of the estimated physical activity time needed to burn off the calories in a dish.

These regulations also extend to digital food ordering platforms, a Saudi Press Agency report said.

According to the SFDA, the initiative is designed to promote healthier food options, raise awareness of dietary habits, and help consumers manage their salt and caffeine intake in accordance with global health recommendations.

World Health Organisation (WHO) advise

The World Health Organization (WHO) advises that adults should limit sodium consumption to no more than 5 grams of salt per day—roughly one teaspoon. For caffeine, WHO recommends a maximum of 400 mg per day for adults and 200 mg for pregnant women.

To support both compliance and public awareness, the SFDA has made resources available. Consumers and food establishments can access a “Caffeine Calculator” on the SFDA website to monitor intake levels.

The full technical regulations, covering high-salt meal labeling, caffeine disclosures, and calorie burn indicators, can be downloaded from the SFDA’s “Mwasfah” platform. For further information, the SFDA can be contacted via its unified hotline at 19999.

Holy Mosques authority urges health measures for safe worship

The General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque is also urging visitors to follow health and safety guidelines while performing their religious duties in Makkah.

Worshippers are encouraged to wear face masks, use hand sanitizers, wash hands frequently, avoid sharing personal items, and stay well-hydrated, especially during peak heat hours. Visitors should also avoid overcrowding at entry and exit points and seek medical attention if they experience any symptoms.

Three emergency health centers operated by the Makkah Health Cluster remain open 24/7 to serve visitors. The authority emphasized that these precautions reflect the Saudi government’s ongoing commitment to ensuring a safe and comfortable worship experience for all.