Ibtesam Gul
RIYADH: The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has issued a strong warning against the unauthorized production or storage of food items during the Hajj 2026 (Hajj 1447). The unauthorized production now carries penalties of up to 10 million riyals or 10 years of imprisonment.
According to the Food Authority, an intensified inspection campaign across food factories and warehouses has started to ensure strict compliance with established food safety regulations. The SFDA emphasized that the health and safety of hajis, particularly regarding food and medicine, remains its highest priority. The Authority asserted that even minor violations will not be tolerated.
Under the prescribed regulations, people or entities found in breach could face a fine of 10 million SAR, a decade-long prison sentence, a 180-day operational suspension, or the revocation of their license for up to one year.
“Food items may only be stored in facilities that have been granted an official permit,” the statement read. The authority also clarified that tampering with a sealed establishment or reopening a shuttered facility without prior authorization from the relevant department constitutes a legal violation.
To uphold the safety of pilgrims throughout the Hajj season, the Saudi Food Authority has established specific protocols for food preparation and storage. A unified telephone number has also been designated for the public to report any suspected violations.
RIYADH: The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has issued a strong warning against the unauthorized production or storage of food items during the Hajj 2026 (Hajj 1447). The unauthorized production now carries penalties of up to 10 million riyals or 10 years of imprisonment.
According to the Food Authority, an intensified inspection campaign across food factories and warehouses have started to ensure strict compliance with established food safety regulations. The SFDA emphasized that the health and safety of hajis, particularly regarding food and medicine, remains its highest priority. The Authority asserted that even minor violations will not be tolerated.
Under the prescribed regulations, people or entities found in breach could face a fine of 10 million SAR, a decade-long prison sentence, a 180-day operational suspension, or the revocation of their license for up to one year.
“Food items may only be stored in facilities that have been granted an official permit,” the statement read. The authority also clarified that tampering with a sealed establishment or reopening a shuttered facility without prior authorization from the relevant department constitutes a legal violation.
To uphold the safety of pilgrims throughout the Hajj season, Saudi Food Authority has established specific protocols for food preparation and storage. A unified telephone number has also been designated for the public to report any suspected violations.
