RIYADH: The World Health Organization has designated the Saudi Food and Drug Authority as its Regional Center for Nutrition Collaboration for the Eastern Mediterranean region, which includes 22 countries.
According to the authority, the recognition reflects its work in implementing food and nutrition policies aimed at improving public health, enhancing quality of life and reducing non-communicable diseases.
The designation supports efforts to develop healthier food systems and encourage better eating habits, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
The center will assist member countries in applying key strategies of the WHO. These include reducing salt and sugar intake, eliminating partially hydrogenated oils, limiting the marketing of unhealthy foods to children and building a regional database on nutritional content to support evidence-based policies.
The appointment also confirms the authority’s role in enforcing nutrition-related regulations that support healthier food environments. It aligns with the goals of the Health Sector Transformation Program under Vision 2030.
