UAE launches assessment of food control systems

The UAE's Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) has launched the 'Food Control System Assessment' in the UAE, in partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO).

The launch came during a five-day inception and training workshop held at the ministry's headquarters in Dubai, which concluded on Friday.

More than 50 focal points from the UAE's Competent Authorities (CAs) participated, marking the beginning of a comprehensive evaluation of the national food control system.

It brought together senior officials and technical staff from the various federal and governmental entities in the UAE, with FAO experts guiding them through the FAO/WHO Food Control System Assessment Tool.

The globally recognised tool evaluates approximately 160 criteria, spanning food safety policy, legislative frameworks, monitoring and inspection systems, risk management, and traceability. It aims to align the UAE's food control system with international standards, strengthening its food safety measures and trade competitiveness.