The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) and the German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) in Berlin, establishing a comprehensive framework for cooperation in food safety and risk assessment.
The signing ceremony occurred during the official visit of Fahad AlJalajel, Minister of Health and Chairman of the SFDA Board of Directors, to Germany, marking an important step in strengthening bilateral cooperation.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by Dr. Mohammed Al-Nasser, SFDA Vice President for the Food Sector. On the German side, Professor Dr. Andreas Hensel, President of the BfR, signed the MoU, marking a significant step in strengthening the collaboration between the two organizations.
The agreement establishes a dedicated network of food safety risk assessors from both authorities, with a particular focus on the safety of food contact materials and packaging, and their impact on overall food safety. To further enhance global food safety standards, the MoU also facilitates the exchange of information and best practices related to the use of artificial intelligence in risk assessment.
The memorandum will support the evaluation of innovative products developed through biotechnology and AI, including the mutual reporting of product safety, efficacy, and assessment methodologies. The partnership between SFDA and BfR will be further strengthened through reciprocal visits, joint workshops, and collaborative training programs, fostering ongoing cooperation and knowledge sharing between the two organizations.
The strategic collaboration highlights the commitment of both the SFDA and BfR to developing a modern, data-driven, and future-ready food regulatory system. The partnership aims to enhance public health protection both at the national and international levels, ensuring that food safety standards evolve to meet emerging challenges and technological advancements.
