Saudi inspectors seize 878 tons of unsafe food ahead of Hajj season

ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 22nd May, 2026) Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has intensified inspections ahead of the Hajj 1447 AH season, seizing more than 878 tons of non-compliant food products and over 151,000 pharmaceutical and medical items during a large-scale regulatory campaign in Makkah and Madinah.

According to SPA, the pre-Hajj inspection campaign targeted food factories, warehouses, distribution centers and pharmaceutical and medical facilities to ensure the safety of products provided to pilgrims.

The report said the campaign was carried out in two phases beginning in the month of Shaban under a proactive regulatory strategy aimed at strengthening food and drug safety during the Hajj season.

Authorities conducted more than 8,085 inspection visits across establishments under SFDA supervision, achieving 200 percent inspection coverage for food establishments through multiple visits and 100 percent coverage for pharmaceutical and medical device facilities.

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The inspections resulted in the seizure of more than 878 tons of unsafe food products and 151,439 packages of non-compliant pharmaceutical and medical items before they reached consumers.

SFDA said inspection teams also identified 3,389 violations, leading to the temporary closure of 46 establishments and suspension of 13 production lines that failed to meet safety standards.

The authority imposed fines totaling more than SAR3.9 million as part of enforcement measures aimed at protecting public health during the Hajj season.

The report said more than 18,500 products were verified for safety, while 3,752 product samples underwent laboratory testing and analysis to strengthen oversight and compliance.

Authorities added that SFDA will continue intensive monitoring operations throughout Hajj to maintain high food and drug safety standards and support reliable healthcare services for pilgrims.