The Halal Food Authority (HFA) strengthens its international certification credentials with global recognitions
The Halal Food Authority (HFA) is delighted to announce that it is now authorised to certify Halal products according to the national standards set in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), detailed under UAE 2055-2 by the Emirates Standardisation and Metrology Authority (ESMA).
Currently, HFA is one of only a handful of certification bodies in the world that are approved and registered with ESMA to
-date.
Saqib Mohammed, Chief Executive of the HFA says, “This prestigious accomplishment is a direct outcome of our on-going commitment and vision towards raising halal certification standards – driven by innovation, ensuring enhanced quality assurance, and continued investment in human capital”.
The Saudi-based accreditation body GCC Accreditation Centre (GAC) undertook the HFA’s ESMA registration and approval. This process involves a formal accreditation to the UAE2055-2, comprising of an assessment of: quality management systems, technical audit protocols, and adherence to ISO17065, ISO17021 and ISO9001.
The scope of HFA accreditation under this scheme includes halal certification of processed meat products, dairy, confectionery, food additives, ready-to-eat foods, beverages, chemicals, colours and flavours.
By March 2017, ESMA intends to implement a policy where all halal products exported to the UAE must be certified by bodies accredited under UAE2055-2 and registered with ESMA.
The HFA see the UAE as a key market in terms of consumption and high-quality premium offerings to a diverse audience who, regardless of faith, expect both quality and an extensive choice of international brands.
Because of this, the HFA look forward to working with food manufacturers – acting as a gateway for enabling businesses to deliver halal certified products that meet the halal export requirements of UAE authorities.
