Saudi Healthy Plate-2024: Framework for Developing, Modeling, and Evaluating Saudi Arabia’s Dietary Guidelines
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Background Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are a leading cause of global mortality, accounting for 71% of deaths annually, with similar trends observed in Saudi Arabia. The Saudi Healthy Plate 2024 (SHP-2024) was developed by the National Nutrition Committee of the Saudi Food and Drug Authority to address the population's nutritional needs and reduce the burden of NCDs. SHP-2024 provides balanced and culturally appropriate dietary recommendations. Methods SHP-2024 was designed using optimization modeling techniques, incorporating global best practices, expert consultations, and rigorous validation processes. The dietary patterns were calibrated to ensure nutritional adequacy and economic feasibility. Monte Carlo simulations with 10,000 iterations were used to evaluate nutrient intake adequacy across various calorie levels (1,600–3,200 kcal). Nutritional constraints and economic assessments adhered to Saudi regulatory standards and data from the General Authority for Statistics. Results SHP-2024 meets the average requirements for most macronutrients and micronutrients, including protein, iron, and phosphorus, across all calorie patterns. However, deficiencies in vitamin E and choline intakes were identified. The guidelines demonstrated scalability and flexibility, adapting to varying caloric requirements while maintaining nutritional balance. Cost analysis revealed affordability, with diet costs ranging from 380.7 to 762.7 SAR, ensuring accessibility for the population. Conclusions SHP-2024 represents a significant step in addressing NCDs through optimized dietary guidance tailored to Saudi Arabia’s needs. This intervention is effective in meeting most nutritional targets; however, addressing gaps in certain nutrients remains a priority for future iterations. These guidelines provide a robust foundation for public health strategies, fostering improved dietary practices and reducing the economic burden of NCDs.
