Abu Dhabi Quality and Conformity Council, together with the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority, has introduced a new Premium Food Mark for locally produced chilled chicken products during the Make it in the Emirates 2026 event.
The initiative is designed to enhance the quality, safety and competitiveness of the UAE’s poultry sector by implementing production standards that exceed existing national requirements. Developed under Abu Dhabi’s Healthy Living Strategy, the programme applies strict technical guidelines across the full poultry supply chain, including farming, feeding, slaughtering, processing, packaging and distribution.
The new standards also place strong emphasis on animal welfare, sustainability and overall product quality. Authorities believe the certification will strengthen consumer trust in locally produced poultry products while encouraging manufacturers to adopt more advanced production practices.
Engineer Bader Alshemaili, Executive Director of the Conformity and Standards Sector, said the initiative represents a major step toward improving food security and supporting the development of national food industries. He added that the programme aligns with Abu Dhabi’s goal of adopting international best practices in food production and supply chain management.
Dr Ahmed AlKhazraji, Executive Director of the Healthy Living Sector, noted that the certification will help consumers make better-informed food choices by providing clearer information on product quality and production standards.
Meanwhile, Dr Sayed Essam Al Hashmi, Acting Executive Director of the Development and Innovation Sector at the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority, said the programme forms part of broader efforts to position Abu Dhabi as a global hub for food security and sustainable food production. He highlighted that the initiative encourages the adoption of modern technologies and improved operational efficiency throughout the food value chain.
Officials added that the Premium Food Mark is expected to open new regional and international market opportunities for UAE food producers while boosting investor confidence in the country’s food industry.