Saudi Arabia Eggs

FAQs

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Where does Saudi Arabia import eggs?

Saudi Arabia imports eggs from several countries to supplement domestic production, especially during periods of high demand or production shortfalls. The main suppliers include:

1. Turkey 🇹🇷

• One of the largest egg exporters to Saudi Arabia due to its proximity, competitive pricing, and high production capacity.
• Turkish eggs meet GCC food safety and halal standards.

2. Ukraine 🇺🇦

• A major supplier of affordable shell eggs to the Gulf region.
• Offers bulk shipments that meet Saudi import regulations.

3. Brazil 🇧🇷

• A leading exporter of poultry and eggs to Saudi Arabia.
• Brazilian eggs are popular for foodservice and industrial use.

4. United Arab Emirates 🇦🇪

• The UAE acts as a regional hub for egg imports and re-exports to Saudi Arabia.
• Supplies both locally produced and imported eggs from other countries.

5. European Union (Netherlands, Spain, Poland) 🇪🇺

• Supplies high-quality eggs that meet EU and Saudi Arabian food safety standards.
• Often used for premium retail and food manufacturing.

6. India 🇮🇳 (Emerging Supplier)

• Exports table eggs and hatching eggs at competitive prices.
• Mainly supplies bulk shipments for wholesale markets.

These sources allow Saudi Arabia to maintain a steady supply of eggs to meet the needs of its population. To Learn more about working with international egg markets contact eusales@eggsunlimited.com.

What makes eggs in Saudi Arabia compliant?

Egg Import Compliance in Saudi Arabia

Eggs imported into Saudi Arabia must meet strict food safety, health, and labeling regulations set by the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) and the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture (MEWA). Compliance ensures eggs are safe for consumption and meet trade standards.

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1. Sanitary & Veterinary Requirements

• Eggs must come from disease-free zones, particularly free from avian influenza and Newcastle disease.
• A health certificate issued by the exporting country’s veterinary authority is mandatory.
• The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH/OIE) standards must be followed.

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2. Quality & Food Safety Standards

• Eggs must comply with Gulf Standardization Organization (GSO) regulations for size, weight, and cleanliness.
• No cracked or dirty eggs allowed in commercial shipments.
• Eggs must be stored and transported under temperature-controlled conditions.

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3. Halal Certification (For Processed Egg Products)

• If importing liquid, powdered, or processed eggs, they must be Halal-certified.
• Certification must come from SFDA-approved Halal authorities.

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4. Labeling & Packaging Compliance

• Labels must be in Arabic (or bilingual: Arabic & English) and include:
  • Expiration/best-before date.
  • Country of origin and producer details.
  • Storage instructions (e.g., “Keep Refrigerated”).
  • Batch number and traceability code.

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5. Import Documentation & Trade Regulations

• Required documents:
  • SFDA Import Permit.
  • Health Certificate from the Exporting Country.
  • Certificate of Origin.
  • Commercial Invoice & Packing List.
• Imports must go through SFDA border inspections at designated entry points.

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6. Sustainability & Animal Welfare Compliance (Growing Demand)

• Some importers prefer cage-free or organic-certified eggs, though not yet mandatory.
• Saudi Vision 2030 aims to promote more self-sufficiency in egg production, which may affect future import policies.

By adhering to these standards, eggs from overseas gain access to Saudi Arabia’s market, ensuring safety and quality for consumers. Eggs Unlimited’s experience with compliance and supply-chain expertise positions it well to meet these requirements. Let us know if you’d like to explore how we could assist in navigating Saudi Arabia’s egg import market! Contact eusales@eggsunlimited.com

Why Does Saudi Arabia Import Eggs?

Despite having a growing domestic poultry industry, Saudi Arabia imports eggs due to several key factors:

1. Supply Shortages & Domestic Production Gaps

• Saudi Arabia produces a significant amount of eggs, but local production cannot fully meet demand, especially during peak seasons (e.g., Ramadan and Hajj).
• Climate challenges, such as extreme heat, impact poultry farming, leading to seasonal fluctuations in production.

2. Population Growth & Rising Demand

• With a population of over 36 million and a large expatriate workforce, demand for eggs is constantly increasing.
• The foodservice industry (hotels, restaurants, bakeries, and catering businesses) requires a stable supply of eggs year-round.

3. Food Security & Price Stability

• Importing eggs ensures a steady supply and prevents price spikes due to domestic shortages.
• The government allows imports to stabilize egg prices and maintain affordability for consumers.

4. Processed Egg Product Demand

• Saudi Arabia imports powdered and liquid eggs for use in food manufacturing, including baked goods, sauces, and ready-made meals.
• Countries like Brazil, the U.S., and the Netherlands dominate this segment due to their advanced processing industries.

5. Trade Agreements & Competitive Pricing

• Imports from Turkey, Ukraine, and Brazil provide cost-effective alternatives to domestic production.
• Some countries have free trade agreements or reduced tariffs, making imports more attractive.

6. Poultry Disease & Biosecurity Concerns

• Outbreaks of avian influenza or other poultry diseases can impact domestic farms, leading to temporary reliance on imports to meet demand.

For more information on importing eggs to the Saudi Arabia contact eusales@eggsunlimited.com 

How much do eggs cost in Saudi Arabia?

As of December 2024, the price of eggs in Saudi Arabia varies based on factors such as location, egg type, and market conditions. 

Factors Influencing Egg Prices in Saudi Arabia:

1. Avian Influenza Outbreaks
2. Seasonal Demand
3. Imports and Price Stabilization Efforts
4. Feed Costs
5. Retail Prices
6. Wholesale Prices
7. Domestic Supply

Prices can change over time, and regional variations can be significant. To get the most accurate and up-to-date pricing for eggs in Saudi Arabia, we recommend contacting wholesale suppliers and egg distributors for bulk purchasing options. Eggs Unlimited can directly put you in touch with these sources eusales@eggsunlimited.com  

Common egg carton sizing in the Saudi Arabia

Carton Size

Number of Eggs

Typical Use

4 Egg Carton	4 eggs	Small carton designed for premium products, often organic or heritage eggs. Exotic eggs as well.
Half Dozen	6 eggs	Most commonly sold size for households. Widely available in all egg types (free-range, organic, barn, etc.).

10 Egg Carton	10 eggs	The most widely used carton size for everyday retail. Eggs are arranged in a 2×5 layout.
Dozen	12 eggs	Popular size for larger households or frequent egg users. Available in most supermarkets.

15-Pack

15 eggs

Larger size, often for families or budget-conscious buyers. Common in discount supermarkets like Aldi and Lidl.

18-Pack

18 eggs

Sold less frequently but available at some retailers, often marketed to bulk buyers.

30-Pack (Tray)

30 eggs

Typically sold in trays, often seen in wholesale markets (e.g., Costco) or for professional use (bakeries, catering, etc.).

Eggs in Saudi Arabia are categorized by weight rather than physical dimensions. Cartons are typically labeled with the egg size, and a single carton may include eggs of a specific size category:

Category	Weight per Egg (grams)
Extra Large (XL)	73g or more
Large	63g–72g
Medium	53g–62g
Small	Less than 53g

Wholesale eggs or bulk egg packaging by the case

The number of eggs in a case can vary depending on the type and size of the eggs, as well as the packaging standards of the producer or distributor. The most common case sizes for chicken eggs in the United States are:

• 5-Dozen Case: There are 5 dozen (60 eggs) in a 5-dozen case.
• 10-Dozen Case: While less common, you might also find 10-dozen cases, which contain 120 eggs.
• 15-Dozen Case: Each dozen contains 12 eggs, so there are 15 dozen or 180 eggs. in a 15-dozen case.
• 30-Dozen Case: Each dozen contains 12 eggs, so there are 30 dozen or 360 eggs. in a 30-dozen case.
• 720 Egg Pallet: (24 Trays of 30 Eggs) Palletized packaging for very large buyers or distributors.

Types of Eggs

Eggs in Saudi Arabia are categorized by production method and farming practices, with some labels catering to specific consumer preferences:

• Conventional Eggs:
  • White Eggs
  • Brown Eggs
    • Produced by caged hens in large-scale facilities. These are the most affordable and widely available.
• Egg Products
  • Used by food manufacturers, bakeries, and restaurants. Includes:
  • Liquid Eggs: Pasteurized egg whites, yolks, or whole eggs.
  • Powdered Eggs: Dehydrated eggs for long shelf life and industrial use.
  • Frozen Eggs: Used for large-scale food production.
• Free-Range Eggs: Laid by hens that roam freely outdoors or in open barns, catering to consumers who prioritize animal welfare.
• Organic Eggs: From hens fed organic feed and raised under strict organic farming guidelines. These are typically more expensive.
• Specialty Eggs

Contact Eggs Unlimited for any egg size or type of case load needed today!! eusales@eggsunlimited.com 

Are Eggs in Saudi Arabia Pasteurized?

In Saudi Arabia, whether eggs are pasteurized depends on their type and intended use:

1. Shell Eggs (Fresh Eggs) – Not Required to Be Pasteurized

Fresh shell eggs sold in supermarkets, markets, and farms are not typically pasteurized.

They must meet Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) safety standards, including being clean, free from cracks, and stored at safe temperatures.

Consumers are advised to cook eggs fully to reduce foodborne illness risks.

2. Liquid & Processed Egg Products – Must Be Pasteurized

Liquid eggs (whole, whites, yolks), powdered eggs, and frozen egg products must be pasteurized before sale.

Pasteurization is required by SFDA regulations to eliminate Salmonella and other bacteria.

These products are used in hotels, bakeries, food manufacturing, and restaurants.

3. Imported Eggs – Compliance with Pasteurization Rules

Imported liquid or powdered eggs must have pasteurization certification from the exporting country.

Shell eggs do not require pasteurization, but they must be from disease-free zones and meet hygiene standards.

How to sell commercial eggs in Saudi Arabia?

Selling commercial eggs in Saudi Arabia requires strict regulatory standards, competitive market demands, and consumer preferences. The market is highly competitive, with both domestic producers and international suppliers catering to retail, foodservice, and industrial buyers. Below is a step-by-step guide to entering and succeeding in the Saudi egg market:

Step 1: Identify Your Target Market

A. Wholesale & Retail Market

• Supermarkets (Panda, Carrefour, Danube, Lulu Hypermarket).
• Local grocery stores & convenience shops.
• Online grocery platforms (e.g., Nana, Noon Grocery).

B. Foodservice Industry

• Hotels, restaurants, bakeries, and catering services.
• Fast-food chains & QSR (Quick Service Restaurants).
• Airlines and large-scale food suppliers.

C. Industrial Use (Processed Eggs)

• Bakeries, food manufacturers (e.g., pastry & dessert producers).
• Pharmaceutical & cosmetics industries (egg-based products).

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Step 2: Obtain Regulatory Approvals

A. For Imported Eggs

• Saudi Food & Drug Authority (SFDA) Import Permit – All imported eggs must be registered with SFDA.
• Health Certificate from Exporting Country – Certifies eggs are disease-free (avian influenza, Newcastle disease).
• Certificate of Origin – Confirms the country of production.
• Halal Certification (For Processed Egg Products) – Required for liquid/powdered eggs.
• Customs Clearance (ZATCA) – Clearance through the Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority.

B. For Locally Produced Eggs

• Farms must be approved by the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture (MEWA).
• Compliance with SFDA food safety and hygiene standards.
• Proper egg grading, packaging, and storage regulations.

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Step 3: Ensure Proper Packaging & Labeling

• Arabic labeling (or bilingual: Arabic & English) required.
• Label must include:
  ✅ Expiration date & production date.
  ✅ Storage conditions (e.g., “Keep Refrigerated”).
  ✅ Producer/importer details & batch number.
  ✅ Halal certification (if applicable).
  ✅ Country of origin (for imports).

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Step 4: Distribution & Logistics

• Partner with local distributors and wholesalers.
• Establish relationships with major supermarkets and foodservice providers.
• Ensure cold chain logistics (temperature-controlled transport & storage).
• Use warehouses & distribution hubs in major cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam.

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Step 5: Competitive Pricing & Sales Strategy

• Price based on market demand, import costs, and competition.
• Offer bulk discounts for wholesalers and food manufacturers.
• Consider contracts with supermarkets & foodservice chains for steady demand.

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Step 6: Marketing & Branding

• Highlight product quality, freshness, and compliance with Saudi standards.
• Promote premium options (Omega-3, Organic, Free-Range).
• Advertise via social media, retail promotions, and B2B trade shows (e.g., Saudi Food Expo).

Selling eggs commercially in the Saudi Arabia market requires a deep understanding of regulatory compliance, food safety, and the commercial distribution process. It’s advisable to work closely with relevant government agencies and seek expert advice to ensure your commercial egg business operates legally and successfully. 

Contact Eggs Unlimited today! eusales@eggsunlimited.com 

EGG CERTIFICATIONS IN Saudi Arabia

Egg certifications in Saudi Arabia are essential for ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and catering to consumer preferences for quality, food safety, and sustainability. Below is an overview of the most important certifications for eggs in Saudi Arabia:

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Selling eggs in Saudi Arabia requires strict compliance with food safety, health, and trade regulations. The main certifying authorities include the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) and the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture (MEWA). Below are the key certifications required for commercial and imported eggs.

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1. SFDA Food Safety Certification

• Issued by the Saudi Food & Drug Authority (SFDA).
• Ensures eggs meet hygiene, storage, and quality standards.
• Covers fresh shell eggs, liquid eggs, and egg powder.
• Required for retail, wholesale, and foodservice sales.

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2. Veterinary Health Certificate (For Imports)

• Required for all imported eggs.
• Must be issued by the exporting country’s veterinary authority.
• Confirms eggs are free from avian influenza, Newcastle disease, and Salmonella.
• Must comply with World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH/OIE) guidelines.

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3. Halal Certification (For Processed Egg Products)

• Required for liquid eggs, powdered eggs, and egg-based products.
• Certification must come from an SFDA-approved Halal authority.
• Ensures eggs are processed and handled according to Islamic guidelines.

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4. ISO & HACCP Food Safety Certifications (For Producers & Suppliers)

Not mandatory but highly recommended for large-scale producers and exporters.

• ISO 22000 – International food safety management certification.
• HACCP (Hazard Analysis & Critical Control Points) – Ensures food safety in production and processing.
• GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) – Required for food processing plants.

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5. Packaging & Labeling Compliance

• Labels must be in Arabic (or bilingual: Arabic & English).
• Required information:
  ✅ Expiration date & production date.
  ✅ Storage conditions (e.g., “Keep Refrigerated”).
  ✅ Country of origin & batch number.
  ✅ Halal certification (if applicable).
  ✅ Producer & importer details.

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6. Import & Trade Certifications (For International Suppliers)

• SFDA Import Permit – Required for all egg imports.
• Certificate of Origin – Confirms where the eggs were produced.
• Commercial Invoice & Packing List – For customs clearance through ZATCA (Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority).

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For international certification process information and consulting contact us at eusales@eggsunlimited.com.

WHY EGGS UNLIMITED?

Eggs Unlimited is one of the leading global suppliers of conventional eggs. We have the experience and market knowledge to help save our customers time and money. We work with some of the largest egg producers, retailers, distributors, foodservice organizations, QSRs, and processors in the US and around the world. They trust us to provide competitive prices and take care of logistics from pickup to delivery. 

We act as an extension of our customers’ procurement or sales teams, creating value, providing solutions, and delivering promptly. The company is built on family values, and we strive to work harder than anyone in the industry to service the needs of our customers.

LET’S DISCUSS YOUR Saudi Arabian EGG STRATEGY!

Get in touch with the Eggs Unlimited Sales team to discover all your conventional egg options.

Call: 1-888-554-3977

E-mail: eusales@eggsunlimited.com