Official name

Qatar Dietary Guidelines (in Arabic:الدلائل الإرشادية للتغذية لدولة قطر).

Publication year

Qatar published its dietary guidelines in 2015.

Stakeholders and process

The guidelines were developed by the National Dietary Guidelines Task Force composed of public health and nutrition representatives from a wide range of institutions across the country including relevant stakeholders under the direction of the Ministry of Public Health. The guidelines were developed following an evidence-based process, drawing extensively upon key international reports and reviews. Expert committee meetings were held to define food groups, number of servings and serving sizes. Focus groups were conducted to test public understanding of the messages the guidelines were trying to convey.

The guidelines adopt an environmentally friendly approach by emphasizing plant-based and minimally processed and packaged foods (vegetables, fruit, whole grain cereals, legumes, nuts and seeds), and by proposing the consumption of locally produced foods and the reduction of food waste. They also recommend eating red meat in small amounts and incorporating fish at least twice a week. The guidelines also include a section on physical activity recommendations, how to eat well while taking care of your family, and food safety tips. 

The Qatar Dietary Guidelines are officially endorsed by the Ministry of Public Health. 

Intended audience

The guidelines are intended for a healthy adult population.

Food guide

The Qatar food guide is a shell-shaped plate that consists of six food groups:  Vegetables; fruits; cereals and starchy vegetables; legumes; milk, dairy products and alternatives; fish, poultry, meat and alternatives. It is recommended to eat a variety of healthy choices from the six food groups on a daily basis. There is a brief section on how to read food labels to educate the community on how to make healthier food and beverage choices while limiting the intake of sugar, salt and unhealthy fats.

Messages 

• Eat healthy choices from the 6 food groups.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Limit sugar, salt and fat.
• Be physically active.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Adopt safe and clean food preparation methods.
• Eat healthy while protecting the environment.
• Take care of your family:
  • Breastfeed your baby exclusively for the first six months of their life, and continue until your child is two years old.
  • Build and model healthy patterns for your family.