Saudi Arabia’s dining scene is set for a major shift starting July 1, 2025, when new food labelling regulations officially come into effect. The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has announced that all restaurants, cafés, food establishments, and delivery platforms must begin displaying full nutritional information on their menus — both physical and digital.
The updated rules are part of a nationwide push to encourage healthier lifestyle choices and increase public awareness of sodium and caffeine consumption.
Under the new guidelines, menus must now include:
- Saltshaker icons to indicate high-sodium dishes
- Caffeine content disclosures for beverages
- An estimate of the physical activity required to burn the calories in each item
These changes are designed to make nutritional details more accessible and understandable, especially for consumers who frequently eat out or order online.
The SFDA’s decision is closely aligned with recommendations from the World Health Organization (WHO). According to global health guidelines, adults should not consume more than 5 grams of salt per day (around one teaspoon) and should limit caffeine to 400 mg per day — 200 mg for pregnant women.
To help the public make better decisions, the SFDA also offers a free “Caffeine Calculator” on its website. This tool helps users estimate their daily caffeine intake based on different food and drink items.
For those wanting to understand the full scope of the regulations, the Mwasfah platform provides detailed technical documents, including:
- Labelling standards for high-salt items
- Caffeine level guidelines
- Calorie burn equivalents for physical activity
These new measures represent a practical step toward creating more transparent dining experiences and supporting public health goals across the Kingdom.
