The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) confirmed it prevented the entry of more than 301 tons of non-compliant food products into the Kingdom during the second quarter of this year, after they were found to be contaminated with microbes that could cause food poisoning.

The SFDA explained that this measure is part of its regulatory efforts to protect consumer health and enhance compliance with approved regulations and requirements, underscoring the effectiveness of its monitoring system in verifying the safety of food products and contributing to public health protection.

Over 17,000 inspection visits conducted

During the same period, the Authority conducted over 17,000 inspection visits to facilities under its supervision, resulting in the detection of 1,960 non-compliant facilities and 1,016 non-compliant products.

This is part of its ongoing efforts to raise compliance levels and verify that facilities under its oversight adhere to approved regulations and technical standards, thereby enhancing the safety of products circulating in the markets.

The SFDA emphasized the need to comply with official regulations and legislation, reaffirming its continued oversight efforts on products and facilities under its supervision, and taking legal action against violators.

These actions may include suspension of activity, imprisonment, or fines of up to 10 million Saudi riyals. It also called on the public to report observed violations via the unified number 19999.