The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has issued a critical warning against consuming Maragatty chicken broth, an Egyptian-imported product, after detecting prohibited synthetic dyes that threaten public health. The agency emphasized the urgency of halting its distribution due to the presence of Dimethyl Yellow, Sudan I, and Sudan IV—chemicals banned in food globally for their potential carcinogenic effects.
Recall Ordered Amid Growing Safety Concerns
In a swift response, the SFDA ordered an immediate recall of all 480-gram containers of Maragatty broth with a best-before date of 1 November, 2026. Transitional measures, such as clear signage in retail outlets and social media alerts, aim to ensure consumers are informed. The authority urges households to discard the product safely and avoid further use, prioritizing long-term health over convenience.
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تحذّر من منتج مرقة الدجاج للعلامة التجارية (Maragatty) لاحتوائه على ألوان صناعية محظورة قد تشكل خطرًا صحيًا على المستهلك؛ وتم اتخاذ الإجراءات النظامية تجاه الشركة المستوردة وسحب المنتج من الأسواق. pic.twitter.com/itkugQYDTx— إمارة منطقة مكة المكرمة (@makkahregion) February 28, 2025
Authorities have initiated legal proceedings against the importing company under Saudi Arabia’s strict Food Law, which mandates severe penalties for violating safety standards.
Offenders face fines up to SR10 million, imprisonment for up to a decade, or both—deterrents designed to uphold rigorous compliance 10. The SFDA reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy, stating, “No compromise exists when public health is at stake.”
SFDA’s Dedication to Food Safety
To foster transparency, the SFDA has activated its unified contact center to receive consumer reports on unsafe products. By promoting community awareness, the agency aims to strengthen trust in Saudi Arabia’s regulatory frameworks. As part of its commitment, the SFDA will continue monitoring markets and enforcing penalties to safeguard consumer rights.
Through proactive measures like this recall, the SFDA reinforces its role as a guardian of public health. By leveraging clear communication, strict enforcement, and public engagement, the Kingdom remains a regional leader in food safety innovation and consumer protection.
