Maximize SFDA Approval: Choose the Right Product Type

Confused about your SFDA product type? Learn how picking the right category boosts your chances of approval and speeds up your Saudi market entry.

7/17/20252 min read

Checklist for SFDA product approval with “Food” selected and marked approved, surrounded by graphs and analysis tools.

Why Your Product Fails SFDA Label Review — and How to Fix It Fast

Many products fail to reach the Saudi market simply because their labels don’t pass SFDA review.

You might have a great product, excellent documentation, and even local interest — but if your label isn’t compliant, expect delays or outright rejection.

Labeling isn't just a design task; it's a regulatory one.

The Saudi Food & Drug Authority (SFDA) has strict rules about what needs to appear on a label — and how it’s presented.

Understanding these requirements is the first step toward faster product approval.

What Makes SFDA Label Review So Challenging?

Language Compliance: All mandatory information must be in Arabic — and the translation must be accurate.
Claims & Descriptions: You can’t just say your product is “natural,” “organic,” or “sugar-free” without approved justification.
Missing Information: Many labels are rejected because they omit key data like net weight, batch number, country of origin, or usage instructions.
Inconsistent Details: If what’s on your label doesn’t match your SFDA dossier — it will be flagged.

How Does SFDA Evaluate a Product Label?

The review process checks for:

Compliance with GCC Standardization Organization (GSO) regulations
Accuracy of health, safety, and nutrition claims
Proper placement of expiry/batch info
Use of approved fonts, sizes, and legibility requirements
Ingredient listing and allergen disclosure formats

Common Questions Businesses Ask

Can I include extra marketing information on my product label?
Yes, but only if it doesn’t contradict or overshadow required regulatory info. SFDA prioritizes safety and clarity over marketing language.

What if my product is already approved in the EU or US?
That helps — but SFDA has its own requirements. You still need to ensure your label is tailored for the Saudi market.

Can I submit the English version first, then translate later?
No. Arabic must be part of the original submission. Labels without Arabic are typically rejected.

How to Fix Label Rejections Without Delay

Work with experts to pre-screen your label before submission
Use regulatory-approved translation services
Align the label text exactly with the product file
Review GSO and SFDA labeling standards for your product type (supplement, food, cosmetic, etc.)

FAQ Section

Q: Does SFDA have a label template I can use?
A: No official template, but your label must meet GSO standards. We can help build one for your category.

Q: Is there a fast-track for label review?
A: Not officially, but submitting a clean, compliant file the first time can cut weeks from the approval timeline.

Q: What types of products get rejected most often?
A: Supplements, protein powders, functional drinks, and imported health products — usually due to vague claims or untranslated labels.

Need help getting your product label approved by SFDA?
Reach out to our expert team or use the chatbot in the bottom-right corner for support today.