New Saudi regulations: Certified food safety experts now required in central kitchens

The Ministry of Municipalities and Housing of Saudi Arabia has updated the regulatory framework for central kitchens , mandating the appointment of a certified food safety specialist within every central kitchen facility. These enhanced regulations aim to boost food safety, operational efficiency, and investment attractiveness in the Kingdom’s food sector.

TL;DR:

• Saudi Arabia mandates a certified food safety specialist in all central kitchens to enhance food safety and hygiene standards across operations.
  
  
  
• The updated regulations require installation of surveillance cameras, electronic payment systems, and proper worker facilities such as toilets and changing rooms.
  
  
• Licensing prerequisites now include strict site selection aligned with the Saudi Building Code, minimum facility size, sufficient parking, and regular inspections to ensure compliance.
  

Revised regulatory requirements
The Ministry’s updated regulations introduce comprehensive operational, technical, and safety standards for central kitchens. A certified food safety specialist, responsible for overseeing the strict adherence to hygiene and safety protocols, must now be permanently part of kitchen staff. Surveillance cameras are mandated to monitor all work areas, ensuring transparency and accountability.
Central kitchens must integrate reliable electronic payment systems and provide adequate workers’ facilities, including toilets, rest areas, and changing rooms. The layout should facilitate worker movement while minimizing contamination risks. The rules require advanced technical control of ventilation, cooling, and water drainage systems tailored to food safety needs.
Licensing prerequisites are more stringent, requiring site selection strictly within approved zones and in compliance with Saudi Building Code standards. Investors must ensure kitchens are located in designated areas with adequate parking provisions for staff and logistics support.

Emphasis on compliance and investment growth
The Ministry encourages all food establishment owners and investors to study the new guidelines carefully, accessible on its official platforms, to guarantee readiness and strict compliance. This policy shift is strategic to elevate Saudi Arabia’s food industry standards, fostering a safer food environment and a more attractive market for investors.
Saudi Arabia’s mandate for certified food safety specialists and comprehensive regulatory upgrades signal a strong commitment to food safety, quality, and sustainable growth in the food service sector. Adherence to these rules will enhance consumer confidence, operational excellence, and economic development aligned with national objectives.

FAQ
Q. What is the new certification requirement f or central kitchens in Saudi Arabia?
All central kitchens must have a certified food safety specialist overseeing food safety compliance .

Q. What other facility upgrades are mandated by the updated regulations?
Installation of surveillance cameras, reliable electronic payment systems, and dedicated worker facilities like toilets and changing rooms are required.

Q. What operational standards must central kitchens meet?
Kitchens must have advanced ventilation, cooling, and water drainage systems and conduct periodic hygiene inspections to prevent contamination.

Q. What is the purpose of these updated regulations?
The new rules aim to raise food safety standards , improve operational efficiency, and make the food sector more attractive for investors.