The Nutri-Mark system is a mandatory front-of-pack nutritional labeling scheme implemented in Abu Dhabi to help consumers make informed food choices. This certification is jointly regulated by the Abu Dhabi Quality and Conformity Council (ADQCC) and the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre (ADPHC).
Step 1: Determine Your Product's Eligibility
Covered products include packaged food and beverages, ready-to-eat meals, dairy products, bakery items, confectionery, and cooking oils and fats. Exempt products include fresh fruits and vegetables, raw unprocessed meats, plain coffee and tea, and infant formula.
Step 2: Understand Nutritional Requirements
Ensure your product complies with nutritional guidelines set by ADQCC and ADPHC, including limits on calories, sugar, salt, saturated fats, and trans fats.
Step 3: Prepare Required Documentation
Mandatory documents include company registration documents (trade license, Chamber of Commerce registration, VAT certificate), complete ingredient lists and nutritional composition, laboratory test reports from ESMA-accredited labs, and high-resolution packaging mockups in Arabic and English.
Step 4: Submit Application Through ADQCC Portal
Register on the ADQCC e-services portal, select "Nutri-Mark Certification," upload all documents, and pay fees: Application fee AED 1,500 (non-refundable), testing fee AED 3,000–5,000, annual renewal fee AED 1,000.
Step 5: Product Evaluation Process
The evaluation includes Document Review (5–7 working days), Laboratory Testing with random sampling (10–15 working days), and Label Assessment (3–5 working days).
Step 6: Certification Issuance
Upon approval, the certificate is valid for 1 year. Add the Nutri-Mark logo (minimum 1.5cm height) and certification number on packaging.
Step 7: Maintaining Compliance
Submit renewal applications 60 days before expiry. Notify ADQCC within 15 days for recipe changes, packaging redesigns, or manufacturing location changes. Non-compliance consequences: first violation warning, second violation AED 10,000 fine, third violation product recall.
Conclusion
By following this comprehensive guide, food businesses can ensure smooth certification, avoid compliance issues, gain consumer trust, and access Abu Dhabi's growing health-conscious market.
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