Abu Dhabi's Nutri-Mark: A Health Revolution

Abu Dhabi introduces a new mandatory nutritional rating system starting June 1, 2025, bringing significant changes to the local food market. The system aims to curb the rising rates of obesity and improve the dietary habits of the population. According to the new regulations, certain foods – such as baked goods, oils, dairy products, and children's foods and beverages – can only be placed on store shelves if they are labeled with a clearly visible nutritional rating, known as the Nutri-Mark label.

What is Nutri-Mark and why is it important?

Nutri-Mark is a labeling system that classifies the nutritional value of food products. Its purpose is to help consumers easily understand the health impacts of foods and make more informed choices. With Nutri-Mark, foods are evaluated based on their nutritional content, giving particular consideration to:

1. Fat content

2. Sugar content

3. Salt quantity

4. Calorie content

This easy-to-understand labeling system is particularly important for the population, as the obesity rate in Abu Dhabi has risen alarmingly in recent years.

The new rules and their impacts

According to the new regulation, products without Nutri-Mark will not be allowed on the shelves, and authorities will have them removed. Manufacturers and distributors can expect strict inspections; if a food product is misclassified or misleadingly labeled, heavy fines will be imposed.

The regulations particularly target the following food groups:

1. Baked goods: Healthier alternatives, such as products made from whole grain flour, may be prioritized.

2. Oils: The content of saturated fatty acids will be a significant factor in the evaluation.

3. Dairy products: Products with low fat and no added sugar can expect positive ratings.

4. Children's food and drinks: Particular attention will be paid to establishing healthy eating habits early.

5. Packaged drinks: Added sugar content will play a decisive role here.

Why is this change necessary?

Obesity is one of the most serious health issues in the United Arab Emirates, including Abu Dhabi, leading to cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and other chronic conditions. To combat this, the government is introducing comprehensive measures, one of which is Nutri-Mark.

According to health authorities, this new system:

1. Can help people make better decisions when choosing food.

2. Can improve health conditions in the long term.

3. Can positively influence the local food industry to produce healthier products.

What does this mean for consumers and the industry?

The new nutritional rating system offers clear advantages for consumers, allowing them to choose healthier foods more easily. However, it places significant responsibility on food manufacturers and distributors, as they must accurately display the nutritional ratings of all their products. Companies not complying with the regulations can expect heavy fines and product recalls.

How can businesses prepare?

Local manufacturers and importers should start designing labels compliant with Nutri-Mark regulations and improving the composition of foods as soon as possible. The following steps may be useful:

1. Reviewing and optimizing the nutritional value of foods.

2. Involving experts in the labeling process.

3. Checking production lines and suppliers to ensure compliance with regulations.

Conclusion

The nutritional rating system introduced by Abu Dhabi is an exemplary initiative to promote a healthier lifestyle. Making Nutri-Mark mandatory not only improves the health of the population but also encourages the food industry to offer better and more transparent products. This is an important step towards sustainable and healthy eating, which will hopefully inspire similar actions throughout the region.