Egypt Country Profile

Food Safety Regulations Overview

Introduction To Food Safety Regulations

Food Safety Governance in Egypt: Developments and Challenges

  • Before the establishment of the National Food Safety Authority (NFSA) in 2017, Egypt’s Ministry of Health and Population (MOHP) and its affiliated agencies played a central role in the national food control system. Food safety laws and regulations were enforced through multiple ministries, including the Ministry of Health and Population (MOHP), the Ministry of Agriculture and Land Reclamation (MALR), the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI), and the Ministry of Supply and Internal Trade. The MOHP, in particular, was responsible for implementing key legislation, including Law No. 281/1994 and Law No. 10/1966. Additionally, several ministerial decrees—particularly those concerning food additives—were issued under the authority of the MOHP. During this period, food safety became a matter of growing public concern and a top policy priority for the Egyptian government.
  • The adoption of Law No. 1/2017, establishing the National Food Safety Authority, marked a major institutional reform in Egypt’s food control system. While the NFSA holds overarching responsibility for enforcing national food safety legislation, it initially delegated certain operational functions to other agencies—most notably the Department of Food Safety and Control within the MOHP—to ensure comprehensive regulatory coverage and effective coordination during the transition phase.
  • Over time, food safety became a growing public concern and a top priority for policymakers. This culminated in the enactment of Law No. 1 of 2017, which established the National Food Safety Authority (NFSA) - a critical step toward reforming and modernizing Egypt’s food safety infrastructure. The establishment of the NFSA signaled a shift toward a centralized, science-based, and risk-oriented food control system. Key objectives included strengthening food inspection systems, enhancing the analytical capacity of laboratories, and adopting internationally recognized risk analysis methodologies.
  • According to Law No. 1, the NFSA’s jurisdiction begins after the point of harvest, in alignment with international standards such as those outlined by the Codex Alimentarius. On-farm food safety activities, including the production and handling of crops and livestock prior to harvest, remain under the purview of the Ministry of Agriculture. Although the NFSA is legally designated to oversee slaughterhouses, in practice, these facilities are still managed by other authorities, often lacking standardized oversight and requiring significant institutional and technical upgrades.
  • By January 2026, the NFSA is expected to assume full control of all delegated functions, with the MOHP withdrawing from its temporary mandates. This phased integration aims to create a unified, modernized, and risk-based food safety governance framework that enhances responsiveness, efficiency, and accountability across the entire system.
  • The NFSA's responsibility for food is defined based on the definition of food outlined in Law 1, which aligns with the Codex Alimentarius definition. While the NFSA is primarily responsible for the enforcement of national food legislation, they can delegate authority to the Department of Food Safety and Control under the Ministry of Health and Population to ensure adequate coverage. This collaborative administration ensures effective supervision, control, and timely follow-up actions.

Challenges of streamlining the food safety system

Despite notable progress, a number of challenges persist in implementing an effective and streamlined food safety system:

  1. Overlapping Responsibilities: Egypt has addressed many previous overlaps by formally assigning pre-harvest responsibilities to the Ministry of Agriculture and post-harvest responsibilities to the NFSA.
  2. Conflicts in Authority: The passage of Law No. 92 of 2018 has introduced new complexities by assigning food safety responsibilities to entities lacking technical specialization, such as the New Urban Communities Authority (under the Ministry of Housing) and various local government bodies.
  3. Limited Technical Expertise: These newly designated authorities often lack the scientific and regulatory capacity required for effective food safety oversight, which undermines system coherence and regulatory effectiveness.
  4. Slaughterhouse Oversight Gaps: Although legally under NFSA’s domain, slaughterhouses remain fragmented in their administration, necessitating urgent reforms and investment to bring them in line with national and international food safety standard

Challenges of the Informal Sector in Food Safety Governance

Although Egypt possesses a formal legal and institutional framework for food safety, its effective implementation within the informal sector remains significantly constrained. Key barriers include weak governance, insufficient resources, and limited technical capacity among informal food vendors. Institutional oversight is fragmented, with multiple government bodies operating independently and often without clear coordination or jurisdictional clarity. The absence of policies tailored to the specific needs and realities of informal actors further exacerbates food safety risks, including contamination, unhygienic practices, and increased exposure to foodborne diseases.


A range of structural and operational challenges continue to hinder food safety management in the informal sector:

Lack of Infrastructure:

1.Informal food businesses often operate without access to basic infrastructure such as potable water, sanitation facilities, proper waste disposal, refrigeration, or reliable electricity. Furthermore, the absence of formal structures and record-keeping systems complicates efforts to monitor compliance or trace the source of foodborne illnesses.

Limited and Reactive Inspection:

2.Regulatory inspections in the informal sector are infrequent and generally reactive, conducted only in response to food safety complaints or reported incidents. Routine or preventive inspections are rare, largely due to resource constraints and a lack of clear inspection mandates.

High Degree of Informality:

3.The informal sector lacks an adequate framework for business registration, licensing, and compliance, which facilitates the proliferation of unregulated producers and vendors. This informality presents a significant challenge for food safety authorities attempting to enforce national standards and ensure consistent oversight.

Inadequate Training and Education:

4.Most informal market participants have minimal or no formal training in food safety principles. As a result, there is limited awareness or understanding of safe handling, hygiene, and storage practices. The absence of targeted training programs contributes to persistent non-compliance and unsafe food practices across the sector.

Economic Constraints:

5.Compliance with food safety regulations often requires financial investment—in equipment, infrastructure, and certification processes. For small-scale and informal vendors operating on thin profit margins, these costs are frequently prohibitive, leading to resistance or complete disengagement from formal regulatory processes.

Cultural and Social Barriers: 

6.Traditional practices and local customs, while deeply rooted, may conflict with modern food safety standards. Encouraging behavioral change and adoption of improved food handling practices requires culturally sensitive awareness campaigns and persistent engagement—an effort made more difficult by the informal sector’s scale and diversity.

Systemic Inefficiencies:

7.Many regulatory agencies responsible for food safety suffer from inefficiencies, including bureaucratic delays, poor inter-agency communication, and limited enforcement capabilities. These systemic challenges undermine efforts to establish trust and compliance among informal actors.

Opportunities and initiatives to leverage the informal sector

In light of these challenges, there is an increasing emphasis on stakeholder sensitization and capacity-building initiatives. Targeted training programs, community engagement strategies, and incentive-based compliance models could serve as entry points for integrating informal sector actors into a more inclusive and effective food safety governance framework.

Constitution of the Arab Republic of Egypt – Article 79: 

Guarantees every citizen the right to safe food and clean water. It obliges the state to ensure food sovereignty and the preservation of agricultural biodiversity.

Law No. 1 of 2017 (Establishment of the National Food Safety Authority – NFSA):

Establishes the NFSA as the principal authority responsible for food control and safety in Egypt. The Authority is empowered to develop and enforce food safety policies and has issued several mandatory technical regulations, including the establishment of Maximum Residue Levels (MRLs) for critical food contaminants.

Ministerial Decree No. 1018 of 2013 (Regulation of Pesticide Registration, Handling, and Use):

Outlines the roles and responsibilities of the Pesticides Committee, including the evaluation and approval of pesticide registration applications and certification of pesticides deemed safe for use in agricultural production.

NFSA Regulatory Decree No. 2 of 2019 for Mobile Food Units:

 Specifies the food safety and hygiene requirements for mobile food vendors, including standards for structural conditions, worker hygiene, licensing protocols, and traceability systems. It also includes:

• Rules for applying food safety requirements in food establishments.

• Control mechanisms for tourist and hotel food service operations.

• Licensing procedures for food handlers in hospitality settings.


• Traceability requirements across the food chain.

NFSA Export Food Strategy Mechanism standards :

  • Decree No. 3 of 2019: Establishes procedures for the inspection and oversight of food certification companies handling exported consignments.
  • Decree No. 1 of 2020: Introduces mandatory standards for issuing food export suitability certificates.
  • Decree No. 15 of 2020: Provides exemptions for “white-listed” factories from certain labeling requirements on exported food products.
  • Decree No. 2613/1994 (Shelf Life Regulation): Defines the maximum shelf life of food products, i.e., the period during which products maintain their essential qualities and remain safe for consumption, provided appropriate packaging, transportation, and storage conditions are observed.
Profile Of The Food Production , Agencies And Operators
Arab Republic of Egypt
Source: https://www.presidency.eg/ar
Egypt is located in the northeastern corner of Africa, with an Asian extension represented by the Sinai Peninsula. It is bordered to the north by the Mediterranean Sea, to the south by Sudan, to the east by the Red Sea, and to the west by Libya
Source: https://www.presidency.eg/ar
Egypt was 995,450 as of 2021, covers an area of approximately 1,002,000 square kilometers, with an inhabited area of about 78,990 square kilometers, representing 7.8% of the total area
Source: https://www.presidency.eg/ar
Total population and demographic distribution: 107,576,056
Source: CAPMAS / Central Agency for Public Mobilization & Statistics
The total cultivated area is 7.2 million feddans (1 feddan = 0.42 ha)
Source: https://www.fao.org
The number of registered livestock, poultry farms in the country, categorized by type (e.g., cattle, poultry, beekeeping: 8825293 heads of livestock in 2022
Source: CAPMAS / Central Agency for Public Mobilization & Statistics
290,000 feddans in 2022
Source: CAPMAS / Central Agency for Public Mobilization & Statistics
IBCS@capmas.gov.eg
Total acreage for farming, including grazing lands (The total area of land used for agricultural activities, including cultivated land and grazing lands): 9.8 Millions feddans in 2022/2024
Source: CAPMAS / Central Agency for Public Mobilization & Statistics (www.capmas.gov.eg)
Competent Authority or Administration Responsible for Phytosanitary Regulations (pre-harvest): The Central Administration of Plant Quarantine (CAPQ), the regulatory authority or government body responsible for issuing legislation related to plant health protection, pest control, and disease prevention in agricultural production.
Source: https://site.capq.gov.eg
Competent Authority or Administration Responsible for Phytosanitary Control or inspection (pre-harvest): The Central Administration for Pest Control / Agricultural Pesticides Committee (APC), the regulatory authority or government body responsible for implementing and enforcing phytosanitary measures, including facility inspections, quarantine enforcement, and pest control verification).
Source: http://www.apc.gov.eg/Ar/
National Food Safety Authority (NFSA), the regulatory authority or government body responsible for issuing legislation related to food safety, hygiene, and the prevention of zoonotic diseases.
Source: https://www.nfsa.gov.eg/
National Food Safety Authority (NFSA), the regulatory authority or government body responsible for monitoring, inspecting, and enforcing sanitary measures in food production, processing, and distribution facilities.
Source: https://www.nfsa.gov.eg/
Competent Authority or Administration Responsible for Ante-Mortem Animal Health Regulation (Pre-slaughter): General Organization for Veterinary Services (GAVS), the regulatory authority or government body responsible for issuing legislation related to the health and welfare of animals before slaughter
Source: https://www.govs.gov.eg/frontend/ar/
Competent Authority or Administration Responsible for Ante-Mortem Control or Inspection and Enforcement (Pre-slaughter): General Organization for Veterinary Services (GAVS), the regulatory authority or government body responsible for conducting and enforcing ante-mortem inspections to ensure animal health and compliance with welfare standards before slaughter.
Source: https://www.govs.gov.eg/frontend/ar/
National Food Safety Authority (NFSA),the regulatory authority or government body responsible for issuing legislation related to meat safety, hygiene, and contamination control after slaughter.
Source: https://www.nfsa.gov.eg/
The regulatory authority or government body responsible for monitoring and enforcing post-mortem meat inspections to ensure food safety, hygiene, and disease control in slaughterhouses and meat processing facilities:
* The General Organization for Veterinary Services (GAVS), it is responsible for conducting post-mortem inspections in slaughterhouses to ensure meat safety and detect zoonotic diseases.
Source: https://www.govs.gov.eg/frontend/ar/

* Food Safety Authority (NFSA) is responsible for regulating meat safety standards, ensuring hygiene in processing facilities, and overseeing the distribution of meat products to ensure public health protection
Source: https://www.nfsa.gov.eg/
General Organization for Veterinary Services (GAVS), the regulatory authority or government body responsible for issuing legislation related to the health and welfare of farmed and wild aquatic animals before harvest.
Source: https://www.govs.gov.eg/frontend/ar/
The regulatory authority or government body responsible for monitoring and enforcing pre-harvest health inspections, disease prevention measures, and aquaculture biosecurity standards): None
Competent Authority or Administration Responsible for Post-Harvest Fish Safety Control or Inspection and Oversight: National Food Safety Authority (NFSA) , the regulatory authority or government body responsible for for monitoring and enforcing fish and seafood safety, hygiene, and contamination control after harvest.
Source: https://www.nfsa.gov.eg/
National Food Safety Authority (NFSA), the regulatory authority or government body responsible for for monitoring and enforcing fish and seafood safety, hygiene, and contamination control after harvest
Source: https://www.nfsa.gov.eg/
The number of third-party agencies and certification bodies involved in food safety: 433
Source: https://egac.gov.eg/en/accredited-cabs/
The total number of food establishments in the country, categorized by type (e.g., farms, food processing plants, restaurants, retail stores): 75,552 food factories and in the agriculture sector , average 7 million farmers.
Source: CAPMAS / Central Agency for Public Mobilization & Statistics
The government body or private organizations responsible for issuing national food quality standards and specifications: Egyptian Organization for Standardization and Quality (EOS)
Source: https://eos.org.eg
The total volume of food exports and imports in the country, categorized by type and value:
Value of Imports : 694,997,166 L.E
Volume of Imports:62171605 Ton
Value of Exports: 245,793,292 L.E
Volume of Exports:15,652,815 Ton
Source: https://www.capmas.gov.eg/Pages/Publications.aspx?page_id=5104&Year=23524
Verification of equivalence and recognition procedures applied to exporting countries’ competent authorities in the context of imported food control.
Source: Decision of the Board of Directors No. (10) of the Year 2021, On the Provisions for Recognition of the Control System Applied by the Exporting Country Competent Authorities in the Context of Imported Food Control. National Food Safety Authority, The Official Gazette (Al-Waqae Al-Misriyya) – – Issue No.285 (supplement (A)) on December 19, 2021
Decisions, Decision of Board of Directors No. 9 of the Year 2021, On the Handling of the Imported Food Consignments Subject to Temporary Release, National Food Safety Authority, The Supplement of the Egyptian Official Gazette (Al-Waqae Al-Misriyya) – Issue No. 285 )Supplement( (a) on December 19, 2021"
The key food products considered strategic for national food security and economic stability, including major agricultural products and stored reserves: wheat
Alignment with Codex Alimentarius, WTO-SPS, ISO, and other global frameworks: Egypt is a member of the Codex Alimentarius Commission, The National Food Safety Authority (NFSA) participates actively in Codex meetings and implements Codex-based risk analysis and hazard control systems. Egypt has been a member of WTO since 30 June 1995 and a member of GATT since 9 May 1970.
Source: https://www.fao.org/fao-who-codexalimentarius/about-codex/members/detail/en/c/15702/
https://www.wto.org/english/thewto_e/countries_e/egypt_e.htm
Number, locations, and accreditation status of laboratories responsible for food safety testing: 43 Accredited Laboratory - No References laboratory exixts ; No legislation has been issued for Sampling
Source: https://egac.gov.eg/en/accredited-cabs/
Measures encouraging the informal sector to apply food safety rules (e.g. contract farming, coding models):
National food safety authorities, supported by public–private partnerships, implement measures that encourage informal operators to follow food safety rules. These include contract farming programs linking small producers to formal markets, digital coding and traceability systems for product monitoring, and simplified registration, training, and compliance support provided by the competent national authority to help informal businesses meet food safety requirements.
Source: NFSA / National Food Safety Authority
Plant Pre And Post Harvest Monitoring
Heavy Metal Accumulation: Implementation of periodic soil testing programs and controlled fertilizer application.
Legal reference: Decision No. 17 of 2022 sets maximum residue limits (MRLs) for heavy metals in food products
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Partially Compliant
Excessive Pesticide Use: Enforcement of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) systems to regulate pesticide application.
Legal reference: Decision No. 6 of 2025 establishing the technical regulation on the Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) for pesticides in food
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Partially Compliant
Microbiological Contamination: Regular microbiological screening, enforcement of hygienic irrigation protocols, and mandatory training for farm workers.
Legal reference: The National Food Safety Authority's Decision No. 1 of 2021 mandates regular microbiological
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Partially Compliant
According to Decree No. 11 of 2020 concerning the rules for applying food safety requirements in food establishments, primary production refers to all activities related to the initial stages of producing food of plant or animal origin. This includes cultivation, harvesting, milking, rearing, breeding, and related on-farm operations, as well as pre-harvest and at-farm handling that may influence food safety.

Decree No. 13 of 2020: On the Mandatory Technical Rules for the Maximum Permissible Limits of Veterinary Drug Residues in Food.
Decree No. 1 of 2021: On the Mandatory Rules for Microbiological Criteria for Foodstuffs.
Decree No. 6 of 2022: On the Mandatory Technical Rules for the Maximum Permissible Limits of Chemical Contaminants in Food.
Decree No. 6 of 2021: On the Permissible Levels of Pesticide Residues In and On Food.
Decree No. 84 of 2023: On the Regulation of the Registration, Import, and Trade of Fertilizers and Soil Conditioners issued by the Ministry of Agriculture and Land Reclamation.
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Partially Compliant
Decree No. 4 of 2020: On the Authorized Food Additives.
Decree No. 13 of 2020: On the Mandatory Technical Rules for the Maximum Permissible Limits of Veterinary Drug Residues in Food.
Decree No. 1 of 2021: On the Mandatory Rules for Microbiological Criteria for Foodstuffs.
Decree No. 6 of 2022: On the Mandatory Technical Rules for the Maximum Permissible Limits of Chemical Contaminants in Food.
Decree No. 6 of 2021: On the Permissible Levels of Pesticide Residues In and On Food.

Article 7 of Ministerial Decision No. 974 of 2017 regarding the registration, trade, and use of agricultural pesticides in Egypt " APC is entitled, according to the conditions it sets, to restrict the handling and use of registered highly toxic pesticides. This would protect human health, ensure the safety of the environment, and the production of clean crops. In this respect, APC determines the permissible amounts for handling and use of such pesticides, regulates their mode of handling and application, and their trading, in line with the FAO Code of Conduce.
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Partially Compliant
The Agricultural Pesticides Committee (APC) is the sole authority responsible for the registration, circulation, and use of agricultural pesticides in Egypt, in accordance with Agriculture Law No. 53 of 1966 and the relevant ministerial decrees, the latest of which is Ministerial Decree No. 974 of 2017.

The Ministry of Agriculture’s Central Administration of Agricultural Quarantine enforces IPM, soil testing, and approved pesticide use.

Decree No. 6 of 2021 On the Permissible Levels of Pesticide Residues In and On Food.
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Partially Compliant
Existence of a government agency or regulatory body responsible for food safety in plant-based agricultural production before harvesting.
Legal reference: Administration of Agriculture; Plant Quarantine
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Partially Compliant
Establishment of regulatory limits and surveillance for pesticide residues, heavy metal contamination, and microbiological safety of products.
Legal reference: According to Decision of the Board of Directors No.6 of the Year 2022, On the Binding Technical Rules Governing the Permissible Maximum Levels for Chemical Contaminants in Food, National Food Safety Authority, The Supplement of the Egyptian Official Gazette (Al-Waqae Al-Misriyah)– Issue No. 108 (Supplement (C)) on May 16, 2022. Article 7 of Ministerial Decision No. 974 of 2017 regarding the registration, trade, and use of agricultural pesticides in Egypt " APC is entitled, according to the conditions it sets, to restrict the handling and use of registered highly toxic pesticides. This would protect human health, ensure the safety of the environment, and the production of clean crops. In this respect, APC determines the permissible amounts for handling and use of such pesticides, regulates their mode of handling and application, and their trading, in line with the FAO Code of Conduct".
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Compliant
Compliance with Codex Alimentarius, EU, and national maximum residue limits (MRLs) for pesticides.
Legal reference: "According to Decision of the Board of Directors No. 6 of the Year 2021. On The Egyptian Binding Technical Rules Governing the Maximum Residue Limits for Pesticides in and on Food Products of Plant and Animal Origin, National Food Safety Authority, The Supplement of the Egyptian Official Gazette (Al-Waqae Al-Misriyah) – Issue No. 151 (Supplement (A)) on July 7, 2021 , Article 6 of Ministerial Decision No. 974 of 2017 regarding the registration, trade, and use of agricultural pesticides in Egypt
""The Agricultural Pesticides Committee's register includes the active substances of agricultural pesticides in their 'raw' or 'formulated' forms, according to the reference database of registered pesticides in the European Commission, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), or any other authority approved by the committee."""
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Compliant
Enforcement of MRLs for chemical contaminants to ensure consumer protection.
Legal reference: According to Article 12 of Ministerial Decision No. 974 of 2017 regarding the registration, trade, and use of agricultural pesticides in Egypt . The use of the pesticide shall be suspended if the MRLs (Maximum Residue Limits) are exceeded.
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Compliant
Application of only approved pesticides and fertilizers in accordance with safety guidelines.
Legal reference: Ministry of Agriculture and Land Reclamation Minister's Cabinet Ministerial Decree No. 1018 of 2013 Concerning Registration, Handling and Use of Agricultural Pesticides in Egypt
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Partially Compliant
Implementation of soil and irrigation water contamination monitoring programs.
Legal reference: Irrigation water contaminated by recycling irrigated water according to Low 93/1962 (controls the reuse of wastewater in agriculture)
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Partially Compliant
Adoption of sustainable agricultural techniques to minimize chemical inputs.
Legal reference: "NFSA’s Strategic Plan (2023–2026) highlights its commitment to promoting the sustainability and safety of agricultural and food production systems, particularly through monitoring chemical residues and enforcing maximum residue limits (MRLs) as stated in NFSA Board Decision No. 6 of 2022.
In addition, the Sustainable Agricultural Development Strategy (SADS 2030) led by the Ministry of Agriculture provides the broader national framework encouraging sustainable and environmentally responsible farming practices."
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Partially Compliant
Standardization of agricultural methodologies based on crop categories.
Legal reference: "Standardization is applied mainly to export crops through the farm code system and GlobalG.A.P. certification under Ministerial Decree No. 670 of 2017. However, no unified regulation covers all crop categories nationwide.
Ministerial Decree No. 386 of 2021 issued by the Minister of Agriculture establishes the farm coding and traceability system for agricultural production intended for export."
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Partially Compliant
National Food Safety Authority (NFSA) In accordance with Law No. 1 of 2017
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Compliant
Decree No. 4 of 2020 concerning the permitted food additives by NFSA.
According to Decree No. 11 of 2020 concerning the rules for applying food safety requirements in food establishments by NFSA.
According to Decree No. 16 of 2022 concerning food traceability requirements.
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Compliant
* Continuous monitoring of physical, chemical, and microbiological contaminants along the post-harvest supply chain.
Legal reference: "According to Decision of the Board of Directors No. (1) Of the Year 2021 On the Binding Technical Rules on Microbiological Criteria for Foodstuffs, National Food Safety Authority. The Supplement of the Egyptian Official Gazette (Al-Waqae Al-Misriyah) – Issue No. 75 (Supplement (A)) on March 31, 2021, Decree No. 11 of 2020 concerning the rules for applying food safety requirements in food establishments".

*Verification of compliance with technical regulations governing the registration, labeling, and handling of Foods for Special Dietary Uses (FSDU), including infant formulas, medical foods, and dietetic products to ensure consumer safety and nutritional adequacy.
Legal reference: Decision of the Board of Directors No.1 of the Year 2018 On the Rules Governing the Registration and Handling of Foods for Special Dietary Uses. National Food Safety Authority, The Supplement of the Egyptian Official Gazette (Al-Waqae Al-Misriyya) - Issue No. 185 (Supplement) on August 15, 2018.

* Implementation of traceability systems to track food movement from farm to consumer.
Legal reference: "According to Decree No. 16 of 2022 concerning food traceability requirements."

* Establishment of intervention and response protocols for food contamination incidents.
Legal reference: "Compliant According to Decree No. 11 of 2020 concerning the rules for applying food safety requirements in food establishments".
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Compliant
Ensuring laboratories meet international accreditation standards (e.g., ISO 17025).
Legal reference: AHRI and QCAP, comply with international accreditation standards such as ISO 17025 to ensure the reliability and quality of analytical results.

• Availability of specialized laboratories for pesticide residue analysis, heavy metal detection, and microbiological safety testing:
- Aqeela Lab: Conducts microbiological and water/soil quality testing, supporting agricultural and environmental safety.
- Central Laboratory for Residue Analysis of Pesticides and Heavy Metals (QCAP): Specialized in microbiological and heavy metal testing for food and soil.
- GOST Environmental Measurement Lab: Offers water, soil, and air quality testing, including microbial contamination.
- National Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries (NIOF): Provides environmental and microbiological analysis for farms and water sources.
- Central Labs of the Ministry of Health: Monitor food safety and conduct routine microbiological screening.
- Labs of the National Food Safety Authority (NFSA): Rely on accredited labs for microbiological testing of food products.
- University Labs (e.g., Cairo University, Ain Shams University): Offer environmental and food analysis services to public and private sectors.
- Private Accredited Labs (e.g., Eurofins, SGS): Provide internationally certified testing for agricultural and food products.

• Accreditation in accordance with ISO/IEC 17025 to ensure reliability and accuracy of laboratory testing:
- Not all lab's scope are accredited;
- Accreditation in accordance with ISO/IEC 17025 to ensure reliability and accuracy of laboratory testing is addressed through the operation of several government-accredited laboratories under the Egyptian Accreditation Council (EGAC). These include
o The Central Public Health Laboratories (CPHL) of the Ministry of Health and Population, which serve as the national reference network for microbiological and chemical analysis;
o The Egyptian Drug Authority (EDA) Laboratories, accredited for pharmaceutical and microbiological testing;
o The General Organization for Export and Import Control (GOEIC) laboratories, responsible for quality and safety analysis of imported and exported food;
o and The Central Laboratory for Analysis of Pesticide Residues and Heavy Metals in Food (QCAP) under the Ministry of Agriculture and Land Reclamation, which conducts accredited testing for contaminants and residues.
- All these laboratories are officially recognized by EGAC under ISO/IEC 17025 to guarantee precision, reliability, and international equivalence in analytical results.
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Partially Compliant
Availability of accredited laboratories performing comprehensive safety tests for biological hazards (pathogenic bacteria, mycotoxins), pesticide residues, and heavy metals.
Legal reference: According to the Authority's decree,testing is only permitted through accredited laboratories.
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Compliant
Identification of regulatory authorities responsible for post-harvest processing, packaging, storage, and distribution.
Legal reference: "National Food Safety Authorities(NFSA) in accordance with Law No. 1 of 2017"

• Proper sorting, cleaning, and storage to ensure product quality and prevent contamination: Compliant According to Decree No. 11 of 2020, concerning the rules for applying food safety requirements in food establishments by NFSA.
• Effective cold chain management for perishable foods to maintain temperature control and prevent spoilage: Compliant According to Decree No. 11 of 2020, concerning the rules for applying food safety requirements in food establishments.
• Adherence to hygiene and safety standards in packaging, transportation, and storage: Compliant According to Decree No. 11 of 2020, concerning the rules for applying food safety requirements in food establishments and Decision No. 4 of 2022 on Regulating the Licensing of Food Handling for Storage Facilities.
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Compliant
Verification of compliance with technical regulations related to food additives, packaging materials, and labeling requirements.
Legal reference: Regulations are issued by the National Food Safety Authority
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Compliant
Implementation of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and Good Hygiene Practices (GHP) throughout the post-harvest stages.
Legal reference: "All food establishments are inspected by the National Food Safety Authority in accordance with Decree No. 412 of 2019"
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Compliant
Animal On-Farm And Ex-Farm Monitoring
Veterinary regulatory bodies responsible for inspection, monitoring, and enforcement of animal health and regulations.
Legal reference: General Organization for Veterinary Services(GAVS); Animal Health Research Institute (AHRI)
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Compliant
Antibiotic Residues: Strict enforcement of withdrawal periods and regulation of veterinary drug use.
Legal reference: Regulated under NFSA Decision No. 13/2020 on maximum residue limits (MRLs) for veterinary drugs in food of animal origin.
• According to Decision of the Board of Directors No.13 of the Year 2020, On the Issuance of the Binding Technical Rules Governing the Maximum Residue Limits for Residues of Veterinary Drugs in Foods, National Food Safety Authority, The Official Gazette (Al-Waqae Al-Misriyya) Issue No. 257, (Supplement) on November 15, 2020.
• The Egyptian Drug Authority (EDA) and the General Organization for Veterinary Services (GOVS). These agencies collaborate with national reference laboratories to ensure compliance with Codex Alimentarius and OIE standards through monitoring, testing, and regulation of veterinary pharmaceuticals and animal health practices but Implementation of national and international standards Partially Implemented.
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Partially Compliant
Zoonotic Disease Outbreaks: Implementation of robust biosecurity measures and surveillance systems.
Legal reference: Governed by Agriculture Law No. 53/1966 and Ministerial Decree No. 1386/2010 on animal disease control and vaccination
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Partially Compliant
Cross-Contamination Risks: Strengthening hygienic slaughtering protocols and sanitation measures in abattoirs.
Legal reference: Addressed by Ministerial Decree No. 498/2016 regulating slaughterhouse hygiene and operationsIssued by the Minister of Agriculture and Land Reclamation, regulating slaughterhouse hygiene
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Partially Compliant
*Availability of accredited laboratories equipped to analyze veterinary drug residues, contaminants, and microbiological safety.
Legal reference: Ensured under NFSA Decision No. 6/2020 on the accreditation and approval of official food testing laboratories.No reference laboratory exist

*Accreditation in accordance with ISO/IEC 17025 to ensure precision and reliability in food safety testing.
Legal reference: "not all labs coop acredited
Supervised by the Egyptian Accreditation Council (EGAC) under Presidential Decree No. 312/1996 to guarantee accuracy and reliability in food safety testing"
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Partially Compliant
Identification of national agencies overseeing meat inspection, slaughterhouse operations, and food safety regulations:
Legal reference: "National Food Safety Authorities(NFSA) in accordance with Law No. 1 of 2017".
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Compliant
Verification of compliance with technical regulations regarding microbial contamination limits, meat processing, shelf-life determination, storage temperatures, and transportation requirements."
Legal reference: "Compliant According to Decree No. 11 of 2020 concerning the rules for applying food safety requirements in food establishments".
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Compliant
Ensuring humane treatment and proper handling of animals after farm exit, including stress minimization and improved transportation conditions.
Legal reference: "Partially Compliant According to in accordance with the Slaughterhouses Management Department at the National Food Safety Authority underway at all slaughter houses ".
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Partially Compliant
Strict sanitation measures to prevent cross-contamination in slaughterhouses and processing facilities.
Legal reference: Partially Compliant underway with the ministerial decrees issued by the National Food Safety Authority .

Decision No. 498 of 2016 issued by the Ministry of Housing, Utilities, and Urban Communities outlines the public facilities that must be provided in residential, commercial, and administrative complexes.
Decree No. 1835 of 2000 concerning the requirements and specifications of poultry slaughterhouses.
Decision No. 187 of 1984 on the establishment of the Veterinary Services Authority to protect livestock from infectious and epidemic diseases, treat cases of reproductive disorders and infertility, and enhance production.
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Partially Compliant
Adherence to best practices for slaughtering, bleeding, skinning, evisceration, and cutting.

Legal reference: "Partially Compliant underway with the ministerial decrees issued by the National Food Safety Authority ".
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Partially Compliant
Proper waste management and disposal practices to ensure environmental sustainability.
Legal reference: Regulated under Waste Management Law No. 202/2020 issued by the Ministry of Environment to ensure environmentally sustainable handling and disposal of waste.
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Partially Compliant
Surveillance of contaminant levels in animal-derived products (meat, dairy, eggs, honey).
Legal reference: "Compliant According to the Authority's decree, testing is only permitted through accredited laboratories."
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Compliant
Routine testing for chemical residues, microbiological contaminants, and potential foodborne pathogens.
Legal reference: "Compliant when implemented by National Food Safety Authorites"
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Compliant
Availability of accredited laboratories capable of conducting extensive food safety analysis on meat and animal products.
Legal reference: not all scoop of laboratories are accredited
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Partially Compliant
Distribution Of Fresh And Processed Food
Authority Responsible – Body regulating food distribution and retail food safety: Implemented by National Food Safety Authorities
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Compliant
Verification of Technical Regulations on food traceability, shelf-life determination, and contamination risks during distribution
Legal reference: " According to Decree No. 16 of 2022 concerning food traceability requirements which it is implemented By NFSA".
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Compliant
Legal reference: Decision of the Board of Directors, No. (4) of the Year 2022 , On The Regulation of Food Handling License Issuance to Warehouses National Food Safety Authority, The Supplement of the Egyptian Official Gazette (Al-Waqae Al-Misriyya) - Issue 66 (Supplement) on March 20, 2022.
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Compliant
Existance of sanitary conditions in grocery stores, supermarkets, street vendors, and food carts.
Legal reference: Decision No. 4/2020 was issued by the National Food Safety Authority (NFSA) of Egypt, establishing the General Requirements for Food Hygiene applicable to all food retail and handling establishments, including grocery stores, supermarkets, street vendors, and food carts.
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Compliant
Legal reference: National Food Safety Authority (NFSA) Decision No. 2/2020, concerning the requirements for the registration and inspection of food establishments, including grocery stores and supermarkets, to ensure hygiene and safe handling conditions.
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Compliant
Food Testing Laboratories and Accreditation Scope – Availability of laboratories for shelf-life testing and contamination monitoring.
Legal reference: Ministerial Decree No. 42/2016 and ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation, under the supervision of the Egyptian Accreditation Council (EGAC), ensuring laboratories’ competence in food testing, including shelf-life and contamination analysis.
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Compliant
The Food Safety Authority has a dedicated department responsible for overseeing food safety in street food vending operations.
Decision No. 92 of 2018 on Licensing Controls and Requirements for Food Carts.
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Partially Compliant
Emergency, Crisis And Risk Management
Authority Responsible – Government body handling food safety emergencies and crisis management: Implemented by NFSA
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Compliant
Assessment of potential food safety risks.
To note: No Experts Exist in Egypt to do risk analysis
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Partially Compliant
Training for emergency response and risk mitigation.
Verification of Technical Regulations concerning food recalls, public health warnings, and emergency response measures
To note: Implemented by NFSA
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Partially Compliant
According to Decree No. 16 of 2022 concerning food traceability requirements which it is implemented by NFSA
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Compliant
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Partially Compliant
National Food Safety Authority (NFSA) oversees regional coordination mechanisms, facilitating collaboration with neighboring countries to harmonize food safety standards and share information on foodborne hazards.
Monitoring the degree of compliance : Compliant