ESMA approves three regulations for control of energy drinks, dairy products

The Emirates Standardisation and Metrology Authority, ESMA, has approved three new UAE regulations for the control of energy drinks, dairy products, juices and other drinks available in the country's market.

Dr. Rashid bin Ahmed bin Fahad, Minister of State and Chairman of ESMA, said the continuous updating of regulations will contribute significantly to the sustainable development drive and further raise quality standards of the products traded in the UAE markets.

He said that ESMA had upgraded the UAE regulation for energy drinks, following the release of international reports that cite risks in consuming drinks containing high amounts of stimulants.

He further added that the new regulation ensures the protection of consumers, especially those with medical conditions, from misleading advertisements by providing a health warning on all energy foods and drinks.

According to Dr. Bin Fahd, the warning will also carry a segment that specifies the sugar level in such products to minimise negative effects on the consumers' health.

He also referred to dairy products as highly perishable, saying that the new regulation will control the processing, importing and trading of fresh milk and yoghurt.

On the UAE regulation for the control of juices, he said the local juice market grew to AED13 billion in 2015 and it is expected to grow further amid a notable increase in unhealthy lifestyle and consumption of foods containing high levels of sugar.

He indicated that the new regulation for the control of juices is aimed at protecting the consumer, especially the youth and children, from the impact of drinking sugary juices.