Maldives has launched its first ever National Food Safety Policy. The policy was launched by Minister of Health Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim.
The Maldives Food and Drug Authority (MFDA), under the Ministry of Health, initiated the work to formulate the 10 year National Food Safety Policy was in 2015, with the consultation of World Health Organization (WHO). The National Food Safety Policy was formulated in line with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), National Master Plan and other international conventions, according to MFDA.
Speaking to media after launching the National Food Safety Policy, Minister of Health Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim stated food is essential for life and ensuring safety of the food is imperative to ensure the health and wellbeing of people. The new policy gives researchers the hope to conduct food related surveys in the Maldives, said the Minister Nazim noting that the Government's policies are designed to provide quality health care services. Furthermore, the Minister called on all relevant authorities to support the National Food Safety Policy.
Speaking at the ceremony, Country Representative of WHO to the Maldives Dr. Arvind Mathur stated that the newly launched National Food Safety Policy of Maldives includes all internationally relevant components required for such a policy. He noted the importance of such polices in order to ensure the health and wellbeing of citizens.
The National Food Safety Policy comprises of major four components, including ensuring quality of food which are produced in the country, which are prepared in outlets, ensuring quality and safety of food which are imported in the country as well as ensuring safety of food commodities sold in the local market. The policy also aims to strengthen inter-authority relations for implementation of such policies.