Saudi FDA Requirements for the Transportation of Food Products

Circular No.: FS-CIR-004-V1/250515
Date: 06/12/1446 AH (corresponding to 14 June 2025, Gregorian)


Subject: Requirements for the Transportation of Food Products

 

In view of the responsibility of the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) to safeguard the safety and quality of food products, and as part of its continuous efforts to monitor locally produced and imported food items circulating in the market—while ensuring the health and safety of consumers and serving the public interest—the Authority emphasizes the following requirements:

  1. Transportation of food products must be carried out using vehicles that are specifically licensed for food transport.
  2. All food establishments—including food facilities, restaurants, retail outlets, farms, stores, and warehouses—must receive, handle, and transport food products only using vehicles licensed by the competent authority, and in accordance with applicable regulations.
  3. The following statements must appear clearly on the vehicle used for food transportation:
    • “Dedicated for Food Transport”,
    • Name of the establishment or name of the transport company,
    • Or a registered trademark, where applicable.
  4. The transportation and distribution of food products must comply with the following temperature requirements:
    • Chilled foods: not exceeding 4°C
    • Frozen foods: not exceeding –18°C
    • Shelf-stable/non-chilled foods: not exceeding 25°C

A suitable and fully covered transport vehicle must be used, with the ability to set and control the required temperatures according to scientific principles and risk assessment, ensuring the safety and quality of the product.
The competent authority reserves the right to request scientific justification and laboratory evidence.

  1. For transporting loose / unpackaged / bulk food materials (liquids, granules, powders, etc.), compliance with the following is required:
    • Use of dedicated containers, tanks, or compartments designed for transporting food products only.
    • Containers must be clear, visible, non-removable, properly labeled, and must indicate that they are designated for food transport only.
    • The transport vehicle must be fully covered, with sealed, hygienic loading/unloading openings, and must be equipped with appropriate closing mechanisms.
    • Ensure no leakage from cooling units into the vehicle’s interior.

 

Additional General Requirements

  • Loading and unloading operations must be carried out quickly, in a suitable environment, and away from direct sunlight.
  • The transport vehicle must not be used for storage purposes.
  • All necessary measures must be taken to prevent contamination.
  • Transport and distribution processes must ensure the safety of the food product, and prevent contamination with microorganisms (bacteria, molds), chemical hazards, physical hazards, or any causes of foodborne illnesses.

The Authority appreciates the cooperation of all stakeholders in serving the public interest and protecting consumer health and safety.

 

Reference

https://www.sfda.gov.sa/ar/node/3599808