The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) in Doha has recently received international accreditation from the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) for the third year in a row. This accreditation applies to the specialized inspection sections within the MoPH’s Food Safety Department, which includes the inspection and sampling of imported foods at various entry points in Qatar. The accreditation confirms that the inspection standards and methods implemented by the Ministry adhere to international standards, enhancing trust and credibility on a global level.
Director of the Food Safety Department at MoPH, Wasan Abdullah Al Baker, emphasized the significance of obtaining such accreditation in boosting trust and credibility in the inspection results conducted by the ministry. It also serves as official recognition of the integrity and technical competence of the inspection authorities, which in turn increases the confidence of clients and beneficiaries in the efficiency and quality of services provided. The inspection sections specializing in local and imported food control underwent a thorough audit by experts from the ANAB and met the standards and requirements for accreditation renewal without any non-conformities.
The accreditation renewal covers various aspects of food safety inspections, including the inspection and sampling of imported foods at key entry points like Hamad International Airport, Hamad Port, Al Ruwais Port, and the Abu Samra border crossing. Additionally, it includes the inspection and sampling of local foods from food factories, restaurants, hotels, markets, and all food handling establishments in Qatar. These inspections are conducted in accordance with the ISO 17020 standard, ensuring that the food safety department at MoPH is aligned with international best practices.
The accreditation renewal is a testament to the commitment of the MoPH and its Food Safety Department to uphold high standards of food safety in Qatar. By complying with international standards and regulations, the ministry is able to provide assurance to both local and international stakeholders regarding the quality and safety of the food supply chain in the country. The accreditation also demonstrates the ministry’s dedication to continuous improvement and excellence in food safety inspections.
According to Wasan Al Baker, the accreditation renewal was the result of a rigorous audit process conducted by experts from the ANAB, who assessed the department’s compliance with international standards and requirements. By meeting these standards without any non-conformities, the Food Safety Department has demonstrated its commitment to maintaining the highest levels of integrity and technical competence in its inspection procedures. This achievement further solidifies the department’s reputation as a trusted authority in food safety in Qatar.
In conclusion, the renewal of international accreditation by the ANAB for the MoPH’s Food Safety Department is a significant milestone that underscores the department’s dedication to upholding high standards of food safety in Qatar. By adhering to international standards and regulations, the department is able to enhance trust and credibility in the inspection results conducted by the ministry on a global level. This accreditation serves as official recognition of the integrity and technical competence of the inspection authorities, further boosting confidence in the efficiency and quality of services provided in line with the ISO 17020 standard.
