Starting in June, shoppers in Abu Dhabi will see a new "Premium Mark" label on chilled chicken packaging, a government-led initiative designed to highlight locally produced poultry that surpasses standard regulatory requirements. Managed by the Abu Dhabi Quality and Conformity Council (ADQCC), this voluntary certification process verifies that producers meet rigorous criteria covering everything from farming practices and animal welfare to sustainability and food safety. By providing a clear, government-backed signal of excellence, the mark aims to help consumers make more informed, confident choices while boosting the competitiveness of UAE poultry against expensive imported brands.

Retailers and industry leaders have welcomed the move, noting that modern shoppers are increasingly scrutinizing the origins and production standards of their food. Producers like Al Ain Farms emphasize that many of these high standards are already part of their daily operations, and this new national framework serves as a formal validation of those efforts. As the program rolls out, officials hope that by building a reputation for high-quality, reliable production, the initiative will not only satisfy local demand but also strengthen the overall standing of Abu Dhabi’s food sector, with potential plans to expand the labeling to eggs, red meat, and dairy in the future.