UAE aims to be most food-secure country

The UAE plans to be on the top 10 list of countries that are food secure, and aims to be the most food-secure country by 2071, according to a report. In 2018, the UAE was ranked 31 out of 113 countries on the Global Food Index by the Economist Intelligence Unit.

To make this a reality, industry will have to adopt modern technologies to increase local agriculture and make sure health standards are up to par. The food and beverage industry will have to be able to meet the preferences of its diverse population as well.

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The UAE has always been looking to support agriculture with the latest technologies including hydroponics for micro greens and herbs. Badia Farms does this for the local restaurant industry. According to Food Dubai report, Badia Farms would like to see Dubai be recognized internationally as an upscale producer of fruits and vegetables.

Aeroponics is another type of farming in use, and unlike hydroponics whereby the roots of plants are submerged in water, in aeroponic farming, roots are exposed and sprayed with mist.

As to health and safety, the Dubai Municipality is developing an app called Food Watch designed to oversee over 20,000 establishments ensure high levels of food safety.