In a bid to bolster food safety measures, the Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing in Saudi Arabia is set to mandate restaurants and food service outlets to implement a robust tracking system for meal ingredients and packaging materials.

This directive, outlined in a recently published guide, aims to ensure greater transparency and accountability in the food industry. The tracking system mandated by the ministry will enable operators to trace the origins of ingredients and packaging materials used in food preparation, facilitating product recalls and aiding investigations in cases of regulatory non-compliance.

Key highlights from the guide include:

Traceability Requirements: Food establishments must establish a comprehensive tracking system that allows operators to identify the source and quantity of each ingredient or item used in food preparation.

Supplier Registration: Upon receipt of goods, restaurants are required to register the supplier's name in the tracking system, with supporting documentation such as invoices or receipt vouchers.

Supply Chain Transparency: Operators must maintain records of the previous and subsequent parties in the supply chain, enabling effective communication and collaboration in emergency situations or product recalls.

Emergency Preparedness: Food establishment operators are advised to maintain a list of contact numbers for suppliers and corporate customers, ensuring prompt communication during unforeseen events or product recalls.

By enforcing these regulations, the Ministry aims to uphold the highest standards of food safety and consumer protection across the Kingdom.