ISLAMABAD, May 12 (APP):The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has announced full operational readiness of its laboratories for the Hajj 1447 AH season, activating intensive plans to strengthen food and drug safety measures for pilgrims. According to SPA, the authority has launched 24-hour laboratory operations and expanded testing capacity to manage the heavy seasonal workload while maintaining international standards of safety and quality. The laboratories receive and analyze samples …
SFDA activates round-the-clock labs to protect pilgrims during Hajj season
ISLAMABAD, May 12 (APP):The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has announced full operational readiness of its laboratories for the Hajj 1447 AH season, activating intensive plans to strengthen food and drug safety measures for pilgrims.
According to SPA, the authority has launched 24-hour laboratory operations and expanded testing capacity to manage the heavy seasonal workload while maintaining international standards of safety and quality.
The laboratories receive and analyze samples submitted by field inspection teams and conduct urgent tests to support rapid response measures and investigate suspected food poisoning cases during the Hajj season.
The SFDA said operational indicators show high efficiency, with 465 requests received so far, 857 samples processed, and 1,856 laboratory tests completed as part of ongoing monitoring efforts.
To speed up emergency response, the authority has also implemented a “Fast Track Mechanism,” enabling samples to be received, sorted and analyzed within one hour to support immediate preventive action when needed.
The report said the SFDA is utilizing advanced technologies, including genomic analysis systems to identify pathogens and trace infection sources, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) devices for rapid microbial detection, and ELISA systems for identifying toxins and food poisoning agents.
In cooperation with relevant authorities, the SFDA is also conducting specialized studies and safety evaluations of ready-made meals served to pilgrims to further strengthen food safety standards during Hajj.
The authority said all laboratory operations are carried out under the highest standards of quality and biosafety through close coordination with relevant entities to help ensure the health and safety of pilgrims throughout the Hajj season.
