SFDA Product Classification Guide | Saudi Food Registration

How to Get SFDA Product Classification in Saudi Arabia

Before you can register a product with the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA), you must first determine how the authority classifies your item.

Many businesses skip this critical step—leading to application rejections, costly delays, and even regulatory violations.

In this guide, we explain exactly how SFDA product classification works and what you need to get it right the first time.

📌 What Is SFDA Product Classification?

Product classification is the first regulatory checkpoint in the SFDA approval process. It determines which regulatory pathway applies to your product:

• Food

• Health Supplement

• Medical Device

• Cosmetic

• Drug / Pharmaceutical

Each category has its own registration, documentation, and labeling rules. Misclassifying your product can invalidate the entire submission.

How do I know how SFDA will classify my product?
✅ Answer: You must submit a Product Classification Request (PCR) through SFDA's electronic system.

🧾 Steps to Submit a Product Classification Request

1. Create an SFDA Company Account

Register as a local agent, importer, or manufacturer on the SFDA unified portal.

2. Prepare Basic Product Information

Have ready:

• Product name (English + Arabic)

• Manufacturer details

• Ingredient list or material composition

• Intended use and product claims

• Marketing format (e.g., capsule, powder, spray)

3. Submit Classification Request Form

Upload all required data, documentation, and product images.

4. Wait for SFDA Evaluation

Typical review timeline: 5–15 business days.

5. Receive Classification Result

SFDA will issue an official classification letter defining the regulatory category.

🚫 Common Reasons for Classification Rejection

• Incomplete or missing information

• Product claim conflicts (e.g., a cosmetic making medical claims)

• Formulation includes restricted or borderline-use ingredients

• Packaging format inconsistent with product type

What happens if my product is misclassified by SFDA?
✅ Answer: You’ll be forced to re-submit under the correct category, often with different documentation and delays.

🔍 Why Classification Matters for Business

• It defines your entire compliance path.

• You cannot start registration without it.

• It impacts labeling, documentation, testing, and import conditions.

For example:

• A protein powder could be classified as a food, supplement, or pharmaceutical—depending on claims.

• A skin product may be either a cosmetic or medical device.

🛠️ How Saudi Food Registration Helps

• We review your product, ingredients, and label claims before SFDA submission.

• Prepare your PCR file with correct documentation and format.

• Liaise directly with SFDA to clarify borderline classifications.

• Support you with product redirection if reclassification is required.

📝 Final Tips

• Don’t assume international classification applies in KSA

• Avoid making unclear or unapproved product claims

• Submit your classification request before preparing your technical dossier

Need help with SFDA product classification?
Contact us or use the chatbot at the bottom-right corner for expert support.

Continue Reading:

• Common SFDA Registration Rejection Reasons – Learn how classification mistakes trigger failed submissions.

• Food Supplement Registration in Saudi Arabia – See how classification defines whether your product qualifies as a supplement.

• Label and Formula Validation Services – Make sure your label claims align with your product’s SFDA classification.

• If you're unsure where to start with SFDA compliance, this free consultation breakdown is a great first step.

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