SFDA: 10-year jail and SR10 million fine for unauthorized food activities during Hajj

RIYADH — The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has reinforced the strict prohibition of manufacturing or storing food products without obtaining the necessary licenses to conduct food-related activities during the Hajj season, warning that violators may face a maximum jail term of 10 years and fines of SR10 million. In a press statement on Wednesday, the authority emphasized that all food factories and warehouses must adhere to the provisions of the Food Law and its Implementing Regulation, highlighting that the safety of food and medicine for pilgrims remains its top priority and stating it will maintain a zero-tolerance policy toward any violations of its regulations. The SFDA stressed the importance of refraining from storing products outside the boundaries of the licensed facility and ensuring that closed facilities are not reopened until all regulatory requirements are met and formal approval is granted by the SFDA. It also emphasized the prohibition of trading products that violate approved regulations and requirements. These measures are part of the SFDA’s ongoing efforts to enhance food safety and protect consumer health during the Hajj season. The authority collaborates closely with various government entities to serve the pilgrims, in compliance with the directives of the Saudi leadership. This commitment ensures that visitors to the Two Holy Mosques receive the highest quality of service, supported by the full dedication of human and technological resources. The statement added that the authority clarified that violators may be subject to the penalties stipulated by law, including fines of up to SR10 million, imprisonment for up to 10 years, prohibiting the violator from engaging in any food-related activities for up to 180 days, and/or the cancellation or suspension of the license for a period not exceeding one year. The SFDA reaffirmed that violators may be subject to these legal penalties, which include significant financial fines, custodial sentences, the suspension of food-related activities, and the potential revocation or suspension of facility licenses. The authority noted that adherence to the Food Law significantly raises the level of compliance and ensures the safety of food products in circulation. The SFDA called on all establishments to strictly follow these instructions. It urged the public to report any observed violations by calling the unified number 19999.