Saudi Food and Drug Authority Launches Multi-Lingual Awareness Campaign During Hajj Season

Riyadh: The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has carried out a comprehensive awareness campaign to safeguard the health and safety of pilgrims undertaking Hajj in 1445 AH. The initiative includes awareness pavilions at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah and Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah, operational until the 8th of Dhu al-Hijjah, which provide information on food safety, medications, medical devices, and other products relevant to pilgrims. Furthermore, SFDA is disseminating awareness messages in nine of the languages most widely spoken among pilgrims. These messages, containing crucial product safety information and advice, are distributed through gifts equipped with barcodes for easy access to additional details. SFDA also has staff catering to pilgrims during Hajj. The authority offers training on personal hygiene, preventing foodborne illnesses, identifying spoiled meat, and safe food preparation practices, to ensure the provision of healthy and hygieni c meals for pilgrims. The authority also collaborates with Hajj mission officials to raise awareness regarding the proper handling and use of medications. These actions align with SFDA's annual operational plan, and with its endeavoring to preserve the safety of food, medicine, and medical devices for pilgrims. The authority actively participates in monitoring and inspecting products and food establishments within the jurisdiction of Makkah and Madinah, working closely with relevant authorities to ensure a safe and healthy pilgrimage experience for all. Source: Saudi Press Agency