Abu Dhabi retailers prepare for new unhealthy food display rules

Supermarkets in Abu Dhabi are preparing for new regulations effective January 1, 2027, which will restrict the prominent display and promotion of foods high in fat, salt, and sugar (HFSS). While these products will not be banned, retailers must move them away from high-traffic areas such as entrances, end-of-aisle displays, and checkouts. Online platforms will also face restrictions on featuring HFSS items in prominent locations like homepages or search results.

Retailers, including Choithrams, are already reviewing store layouts and merchandising strategies to replace unhealthy impulse buys with healthier alternatives. The rules apply to supermarkets larger than 4,000 square feet and utilize the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre’s SEHHI classification system.

In a separate initiative, the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment is urging households to reduce food waste, noting that domestic consumption accounts for approximately 60 per cent of global food waste. The ministry recommends smarter shopping, efficient meal preparation, sharing surplus food, and improved storage techniques to mitigate waste.