RIYADH: Saudi Arabia Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has launched its first National Food Composition Database (NFCD) to provide reliable nutritional information on local foods, supporting dietary research, public health planning and the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.
The database is intended to help researchers, food manufacturers, doctors, dietitians and the public access accurate nutritional information.
The launch marks a major step for nutrition and public health research in the Kingdom. It addresses a previous lack of region-specific information about the nutrients found in foods commonly consumed in Saudi Arabia and the wider Middle East.
The database brings nutritional information together in one system. It includes data on calories, proteins, fats, carbohydrates, micronutrients and sodium in traditional and commercial Saudi foods.
The information is expected to support public health organizations as they develop nutrition policies and strategies. Reliable food data can also help authorities address health concerns linked to diet, including obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
The NFCD is also designed to strengthen academic and clinical research. Researchers will have access to a reliable source of nutritional information that can support studies and clinical trials in Saudi Arabia, the Middle East and other parts of the world.
Food manufacturers can also use the database to improve the accuracy of nutritional information on packaged food labels. This could support greater transparency in the food industry and help manufacturers meet established nutritional labeling requirements.
The database also supports Saudi Vision 2030, particularly its Health Sector Transformation Program and Quality of Life Program, the initiative aims to improve public awareness and help people make more informed food choices.
