Yes, selling homemade food in Saudi Arabia is permitted under strict licensing and compliance frameworks. The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) regulates cottage food operations, requiring adherence to hygiene standards and municipal permits. Recent 2026 policy shifts emphasize digital registration via the Mudad platform for home-based food businesses.
Key Regulations for Selling Homemade Food in Saudi Arabia
- Licensing Requirements: Operators must obtain a Home-Based Food Business License from the SFDA, verified through the Mudad portal, which mandates compliance with food safety protocols. Municipal approvals are also mandatory for zoning compliance.
- Permitted Food Categories: Only low-risk foods (e.g., baked goods, jams, dried herbs) are eligible; high-risk items (e.g., meat, dairy) require commercial kitchens. The SFDA’s 2024 Cottage Food Guidelines list approved categories.
- Labeling and Traceability: Products must display SFDA-approved labels, including ingredients, allergens, and the operator’s license number. Digital tracking of sales is encouraged under the 2026 Food Safety Digital Transformation initiative.