(MENAFN- Khaleej Times) The Ministry of Environment and Water (MoEW) on Monday dismissed reports doing the rounds on social networking sites about drinking cups containing carcinogens as rumours and unfounded.“All locally-produced and imported materials used for packaging wrapping covering and preparing foods — including plastics glass metals ceramic wood cardboard and paper — are put through strict tests before they are permitted to be used. (This is done) in order to ensure that they comply with the UAE’s ... standards approved ... based on EU legislations ... and to ensure that they do not pose a health risk and comply with the food safety ... (standards)” said Saif Al Shara Assistant Undersecretary for Agricultural and Livestock Affairs at the ministry and Chairman of National Committee on Food Safety.
The official affirmed that the regulations demand that samples of all imported materials to be used in the local food industry be tested for food safety by a recognised laboratory with ISO 17025 accreditation (or equivalent) and that the tests be approved by the UAE embassy at the country of origin in order to ensure that no chemicals are released into foods.
Al Shara reiterated that the relevant authorities in the UAE “rigorously pursue” the highest food safety levels possible to enhance the stature of the country as a hub for food trade and ensure the confidence of consumers. —
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