Registering Food Laboratory in Saudi Arabia Made Simple with Etqan Law Firm

Establishing a private food laboratory in Saudi Arabia requires careful adherence to strict regulations set by the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA). These laboratories play a vital role in safeguarding public health by ensuring that food products meet high safety and quality standards.

The registration process, carried out through the “Ghadd” platform, involves a series of technical, legal, and organizational steps before obtaining an official license. From preparing the laboratory’s organizational structure to appointing a qualified Saudi technical director and securing the required municipal approvals, every detail must align with SFDA’s framework.

Registration of Private Food Laboratory in Saudi Arabia

The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) oversees the regulation of private food laboratories. Registration is carried out through the (Ghadd), where an official license is issued after fulfilling specific technical and organizational requirements. The main steps for registration include the following:

1. Create an Electronic Account:
    Access the (Ghadd) through the designated link, create a new account, and activate it via email.
2. Submit the Licensing Application:
    Once the account is activated, submit the registration and licensing request for the laboratory through the SFDA’s online system.
3. Provide Required Documents and Conditions:
    The following documents must be submitted to demonstrate the laboratory’s readiness:
   1. The organizational structure of the laboratory.
   1. Appointment of a qualified and accredited Saudi technical director.
   1. Identification of technical staff and submission of their qualifications.
   1. Availability of necessary equipment and devices to operate the laboratory.
   1. An official approval from the relevant municipality.
4. Pay the Fees:
    Settle the applicable licensing fees through the online system.
5. License Issuance:
    After reviewing the application and verifying compliance with all requirements, SFDA issues the official license to begin operating the private food laboratory.

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Regulations on Private Food Laboratories

Private food laboratory regulations are a set of rules and requirements established by the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) to regulate the operation of laboratories that analyze and test food. These regulations aim to ensure food safety and quality, protect consumers, and typically include:

• Registration and Licensing: Laboratories must register through the “Ghad” and obtain an official license before commencing operations.
• Technical Requirements: Laboratories must be equipped with approved devices and equipment, appoint a qualified Saudi technical manager, and have the appropriate technical staff.
• Organizational Requirements: Submit the laboratory’s organizational structure and obtain municipal approval.
• Food Safety and Occupational Health: Comply with health and safety standards for employees and equipment, and conduct periodic sample testing to ensure products are free from contaminants.

These regulations ensure that laboratories operate according to high scientific and organizational standards, enhancing trust in testing results and guaranteeing food safety in the market.

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Etqan Law Firm’s Role in Licensing Food Laboratory and Ensuring Compliance

To ensure your food laboratory is licensed and fully compliant with regulations, Etqan Law Firm plays a key role in providing legal and administrative support to private food laboratory owners. The services offered by the firm include:

• Facilitating the steps to register on the “Ghadd” platform and obtain the official license from the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA).
• Ensuring all organizational and technical requirements are met, such as appointing a qualified Saudi technical director and equipping the lab with necessary devices and equipment.
• Helping the laboratory adhere to health and safety standards and conduct periodic sample testing to avoid any violations.
• Providing practical guidance to ensure smooth and efficient lab operations.

Conclusion

Registering and operating a private food laboratory in Saudi Arabia is more than just fulfilling technical requirements; it is about ensuring consumer trust, food safety, and long-term business sustainability. With Etqan Law Firm’s expertise in food laboratory licensing and regulatory compliance, laboratory owners can streamline the registration process, avoid costly legal pitfalls, and focus on their core mission of delivering accurate and reliable food testing services.

The Etqan Al Mutamayza Law Firm is ready to provide the essential support you need. You can reach their team at the following mobile numbers: +966550600204, +966551020060.

Additionally, feel free to visit our branches located at:

• Jeddah: Al-Aziziyah District, Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Street (Tahlia)
• Riyadh: King Abdulaziz Street, across from the Kingdom Tower
• Dammam: Al-Ashri’a Street, Al-Badeea, Dammam 32415.

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