News

Nominations open for Food Safety and Quality Board

The Ministry of Health is inviting nominations for the National Food Safety and Quality Board, which includes positions for a service recipient representative, a food science expert, and representatives from food service establishments. The board comprises ten members, each serving a term of five years.

Members of this board are responsible for providing advice, guidance, and technical support to the Food and Drug Authority regarding food quality and safety, ensuring that food products are wholesome, and addressing enforcement challenges. A key requirement for board membership is that candidates must not have any vested interests in food service businesses.

Ministry of Health states that preference will be given to individuals nominated by associations representing service recipients. Applications should include a copy of the National Identity Card, along with contact details, email address, and documentation of relevant education and experience. The deadline for submitting nominations is October 10.

Recent concerns have emerged regarding the rise of foreign vendors preparing and selling food without adhering to hygiene standards in the Maldives. In response, the government is making concerted efforts to address these issues, including the recent implementation of the Food Safety Act. This legislation allows for the issuance of recall notices to withdraw unsafe products from the market and grants the authority to impose fines ranging from USD 651 to USD 65,106.

Under the Food Safety Act, the Maldives Food and Drug Authority (MFDA) is empowered to inspect food manufacturing, sales, and storage facilities and take action against those that do not comply with safety standards. Additionally, the MFDA is tasked with establishing a monitoring system for law enforcement. The government and relevant agencies believe that these measures will significantly enhance food safety in the Maldives.