The label of a product speaks for the product. The label states what is contained in the health supplement product, how to use, when to use and all other such details. Since this is a crucial part of the product it must comply with certain standards and requirements. Read more to know about the food supplement labelling requirements in UAE.
UAE Health Supplement Regulatory Authority
The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) is the primary authority that regulates the health supplements in UAE. Apart from this, each emirate has its own health authority that oversees the activities concerned with dietary supplements within their respective Emirate. In addition to this, The Emirates Drug Establishment also has the responsibility to manage and regulate food supplements.
Why Labeling Matters for Health Supplements in UAE?
Labelling matters for every product but with health supplements, nowadays people are more open towards food supplement consumption and is increasing. As stated earlier, the label gives off all the essential information about that health supplements. The dose, usage, ingredients composed, and the benefits it brings to us.
There are requirements that state that ingredients which the dietary supplement contains must be mentioned in the label along with its quantity. Since the UAE is a Muslim country there are ingredients that must not be used. This is due to Islamic laws. So, it must be well regulated.
Importance of Claims and related Health Supplements Labelling Claims :
Two types of claims are allowed for health supplements in the UAE –
- Health claims
- Structure / function claim
| Aspect | Health Claims | Structure / function claim |
| Focus | Link a nutrient or ingredient to health. In other words, it states there exists a relation between health and the product or its ingredients. | Describe the role of a nutrient or ingredient in maintaining normal bodily functions and structure. |
| Wording | Use language that connects the product to health improvement. | Focus on supporting or maintaining normal biological functions without referencing disease. |
| Scientific Justification | Health claims must be backed by scientific evidence and by significant scientific consensus | Must be based on the known role of nutrients and do not need extensive scientific validation. |
| Examples |
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Health Supplement Regulatory Labeling Requirements in UAE
One of the main Health Supplements Labeling requirements in UAE is the language in which it must be written. The contents of the label must be printed in English and/or Arabic language. The label must contain the following and here’s a breakdown of the essential labelling requirements:
- Brand Name or Trade Name: Clearly display the product’s brand or trade name.
- Product Name: A concise description of the product should be provided. Trade Name or brand name cannot be replace the product name.
- Manufacturer Details: Include details of the manufacturer or the agent acting in the UAE. Including Name, address, Website, Email ID.
- Product Barcode or Unique Identification Code: Each product must have a unique code for identification purposes.
- Dosage and Instructions for Use: Provide clear instructions on how to use the product including recommended daily dosage.
- Production & Expiration Dates: Indicate the production date and the expiration date or the period after opening. This information shall be included with non-removable ink or non-removable sticker.
- Pack Size, Net Weight or Volume: State the net weight or volume of the product.
- Medical Claims: Ensure no medical claims are made on the label.
- Batch Number or Lot Identification Number: Include the batch number or lot identification number.
- Storage Conditions: Specify storage conditions if they affect the product’s validity.
- Ingredients List: Provide a comprehensive list of ingredients, both active and inactive ingredients, highlighting any that may cause hypersensitivity.
- Product Indications and Intended Use
- Health Warning : Any warning and precautions related to the heath supplement regulation in general or specific to any of the ingredients must be specified.
- Country of Origin: Clearly declare the country of origin, ensuring specificity.
UAE Health Supplements Labeling: Things To Remember
- Indication of “Food Supplement”: Clear indication must be provided on the label that it is a food supplement or dietary supplement. An example of this is in the image below.
- Dietary Statement: Dietary Supplements should not be represented as a substitute for a varied diet.
- Quantity of Nutrients: Declare the amount of ingredients with nutritional or physiological effects in numerical form and per portion recommended for daily consumption. It is mandatory for the health supplements label to have a supplements fact panel. It is shown in the image below.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Express the information on vitamins and minerals as a percentage of the reference intake values listed for consumers. (% DV)
The nomenclature used in the labelling, especially when including the names of the ingredients or the plants or animals shall be in accordance with the internationally recognized guidelines. The medical claims related to prevention or curing or treatment of any ailments is not allowed. The products making such claims may be considered as medicinal products subjected to stringent regulations with more detailed registration requirements.
Additionally, any kind of illustrations, pictures inconsistent with the social norms and values are not allowed.
Conclusion
In today’s world where everything holds space for adulteration, the MOHAP ensures that the health supplements reaching the consumers must be of safe, effective and of quality. The Dubai municipality Technical Guidelines for Health Supplements has stated the requirements that are to be met. For a dietary supplement to make its entry into the UAE market, it must be in complete compliance with the Dubai Municipality or respective emirate/local region requirements.
The food supplement registration & labelling can be challenging if it is carried out without complete comprehension. But with thorough navigation and a proper regulatory plan, safe, quality and compliant health supplements can be released.
Know more about food supplement registration in UAE
Artixio with 30+ years of experience is here to help you carry out the labelling of your health supplement products. Our deeply experienced regulatory professionals and regional experts are always ready to guide and assure a streamlined but expedited market entry. Connect with us through info@artixio.com
FAQ’s
Q. What are the claims that are not allowed on the health supplement label in UAE?
A. Medical claims stating the prevention, cure or treatment of any kind of medical disease should not be there on the label. This is applicable not only for labels but also for brochures, advertisements, leaflets or in any other possible way.
Q. How are ingredients derived from plant or animal sources kept in labels for UAE health supplements?
A. The active ingredients derived from plant or animal sources must be stated in the scientific name. This is because it is recommended to use internationally accepted nomenclature to name the ingredients. For example, instead of keeping as Ginseng extract, use Panax ginseng extract.
Q. How much is the fine amount paid for violating the food supplement requirements?
A. For violating the food supplement requirements the payable amount will be not greater than AED 50,000 but not less than AED 10,000.
Q. What is the one thing to be noted for health supplements imported into the UAE?
A. The health supplements, while imported into UAE, must have a shelf life of at least 50% of the total shelf-life. The shelf life must not be less than 6 months. Along with that the label must be clear and indelible. The label must not come off easily.
