The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Municipalities and Housing and the Ministry of Commerce, is intensifying oversight and inspection visits in the Mecca and Al Madinah Provinces.

This concerted effort is part of comprehensive inspection activities conducted throughout the month of Ramadan. It builds on ongoing initiatives aimed at upholding the highest standards of safety and quality, thereby protecting consumers, pilgrims, and visitors to the Two Holy Mosques.

Since its launch in mid-Sha'ban (mid-February), the campaign has yielded significant results, including the seizure of 1,226 tons of non-compliant products; inspections of 1,891 facilities; implementation of 11 inspection campaigns; identification of 29 unlicensed facilities; and detection of over 636 violations across 1,480 warehouses, factories, and sales centers. As a result, 11 facilities have been closed for violating health requirements.

Notable violations included workers not possessing health certificates and inadequate adherence to general hygiene and health regulations.

In addition to regulatory measures, the campaign focuses on implementing awareness and training programs to enhance compliance with approved technical regulations and specifications, and to promote adherence to best health practices among facilities.

The SFDA confirms its commitment to intensifying inspection visits in collaboration with relevant authorities throughout the Ramadan season and in advance of the Hajj season, particularly in light of the significant increase in the number of pilgrims and visitors. The Authority also monitors the implementation of corrective plans for facilities found in violation and pursues legal actions against non-compliant entities.

The SFDA calls on facility owners and workers to adhere to the highest standards of quality and safety, emphasizing that their cooperation is essential for ensuring a safe food environment. It urges consumers to report any violations by calling the unified number 19999.