SFDA Launches ‘Saudi Food Composition Tables’ to Document Culinary Heritage and Enhance Nutritional Data

Haradh: The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA), represented by the National Nutrition Committee, has officially released the "Saudi Food Composition Tables" book. The publication is a key output of the Saudi Food Composition Database initiative, a core component of the Health Sector Transformation Program under Saudi Vision 2030. According to Saudi Press Agency, the launch aligns with the SFDA's ongoing efforts to elevate the quality of national nutritional data, support the development of evidence-based health policies, and document Saudi culinary heritage by monitoring and analyzing local dishes using a precise scientific methodology. The book serves as a reliable national reference for the composition of Saudi foods. It is designed to support the development of scientific recommendations and dietary guidelines, advance food and nutrition policies, support health studies, and raise community awareness, thereby enabling consumers to better understand the nutritional value of traditional dishes. The book highlights the nutritional elements of traditional Saudi dishes, helping consumers understand their nutritional value when prepared using approved methods and quantities. This promotes the integration of local recipes into balanced dietary choices while preserving the Kingdom's authentic culinary heritage. The initiative was executed through several integrated phases, beginning with the preparation and analysis of 130 distinct Saudi dishes using a standardized scientific methodology. To ensure maximum accuracy, each dish was prepared three times, and specialists collected at least 12 food samples per dish. This was followed by laboratory analyses to assess 49 macro- and micronutrients, totaling more than 19,000 individual laboratory analyses. The resulting data was then reviewed and processed to ensure absolute accuracy and consistency. This publication represents a significant milestone in establishing a dependable national database for Saudi food. It enhances the capacity of health, research, and regulato ry bodies to utilize nutritional data for strategic planning, prevention, and improving the overall quality of life. In addition, it highlights the Saudi food heritage within a scientific framework that supports public health and preserves national identity. The National Nutrition Committee is a scientific advisory committee that aims to improve the nutritional and health status in the Kingdom and build a healthy society by providing scientific recommendations and opinions in the field of nutrition to the relevant authorities. It was established within the organizational structure of the SFDA and comprises representatives from government entities, a distinguished group of consultants and nutrition specialists, and private sector leaders.