Saudi Arabia is set to introduce a travel ban on expatriates working in food outlets if food poisoning incidents occur at their businesses. The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has proposed this measure to strengthen food safety regulations and enhance accountability.

Strict Measures to Address Food Poisoning

The SFDA, in collaboration with the Ministry of Municipalities and Housing, has outlined protocols for managing suspected or confirmed food poisoning cases:

• Mandatory Investigations: Employees must remain in Saudi Arabia until investigations are completed.

• Preservation of Evidence: Tools, materials, and equipment linked to the incident cannot be cleaned, removed, or destroyed.

• Legal Consequences: Violations of these protocols may result in criminal penalties.

Process for Imposing Travel Bans

Food outlets must immediately report any suspected or confirmed food poisoning cases to the relevant authorities. Upon notification:

1. Authorities will request a travel ban from the competent agencies.
2. The travel ban will remain effective until investigations conclude.

Public Consultation and Regulatory Updates

The SFDA sought public feedback via the Istithlaa platform before finalizing these regulations. A significant update broadens the definition of unhealthy food, including cases where food contains or is suspected of containing infectious or chemical contaminants consistent with symptoms observed in affected individuals.