Dubai: The UAE has food safety regulations in place but there is a need for coordination between Arab countries, a senior food regulator said.
"Harmonisation exists between the various municipalities of the emirates, but what is needed is more coordination among Arab states," Ashraf Shahata, head of scientific and regulatory affairs of Mars, told Gulf News.
The chocolate and food company is one of the major sponsors of the Dubai International Food Safety Conference starting today at the Dubai Convention Centre and will run until February 24. About a 1,000 delegates are expected to attend the conference which will tackle a range of topics such as what should be known about food-borne illness, chemical hazards in food, misleading food advertisements and the safety of packaged drinking water.
The Dubai Municipality‘s food control department is the organiser and is supported by Ministry of Environment and Water, Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority and the UAE University. The conference will be inaugurated by Rashid Ahmad Bin Fahd, Minister of Environment and Water.
Shahata said there has been a high level of activity from food regulators to engage with manufacturers, specially in the area of harmonisation and in labelling requirements.
He said the event offers a platform for regulators and industry leaders to come together, share expertise, collaborate and set future goals for the industry and the region.
Food safety is a major issue in the region, especially during summer where a number of cases of food poisoning are reported every year.
Details: Global meeting
- WHAT: Dubai International Food Safety Conference
- WHEN: From today to February 24
- WHERE: Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre
- WHO: 1,000 delegates to take part
Are you worried about food safety in the region? Do you know of any ways that would ensure that the food you eat is clean?
