The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has revealed a draft technical regulation for children’s meals in establishments serving food outside the home. The regulation requires disclosing calorie counts on menus and labeling meals with an icon indicating the physical activity time needed to burn the meal’s calories, represented by a walking symbol. It also mandates disclosure of allergenic ingredients and compliance with requirements for fresh juices, blends, and beverages sold in juice shops, restaurants, and cafes.

Sweetened drinks are prohibited with children’s meals; however, natural fresh juices, milk, plain yogurt, or water can be offered as default beverage options. Food establishments must provide at least one serving of fruits and vegetables within the meal.

Regarding marketing and advertising, the regulation bans the use of cartoon, fictional characters, or child-attractive symbols to market meals inside establishments or through advertisements and digital platforms. Promotional gifts or toys can be offered as incentives to purchase meals only if the meal’s nutritional content does not exceed the following limits: total fat more than 30% of total energy per 100 grams or 100 ml of product, saturated fat more than 10%, added sugar more than 5%, or sodium more than 400 mg per serving.

Advertising meals that exceed these nutritional limits is also prohibited.

Menus must include the statement: “Children aged 4-13 need an average of 1,200 – 1,500 calories daily, and individual calorie needs vary.” This statement should appear on all pages of children’s menus, both main and external, in print or clearly on the front if the menu is digital (such as electronic menus or drive-thru ordering points). The font size, type, and color should match those used for food items on the menu.