UAE Pushes World’s First Global Standard for Pasteurized Camel Milk

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A UAE-backed proposal could reshape the fast-growing camel milk market and clean up global trade.

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Camel milk is having a global moment—and the UAE just stepped in to set the rules. The Codex Alimentarius Commission has approved a UAE proposal to develop the world’s first international standard for pasteurized camel milk, a move that could unlock new markets and crack down on fake products.

The decision was made during the Commission’s 48th session in Rome, with strong backing from member countries and international food science groups.

Why This Standard Matters

Until now, pasteurized camel milk has had no global specification, which created loopholes in quality control. That gap has allowed issues like camel milk powder being mixed with cow’s milk and sold without clear rules.

The new standard aims to:

  • Protect product authenticity and quality

  • Safeguard consumers

  • Support fair trade in a growing global market

In short: clearer rules, cleaner products, and fewer shortcuts.

A Growing Global Market

Camel milk is no longer niche. The global market was valued at $1.37 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach $1.93 billion by 2033, growing at nearly 4 percent a year.

While demand is rising fast in Europe and Asia, the Middle East and North Africa still dominate production, accounting for about 40 percent of global output.

UAE’s Role in Camel Milk Production

The UAE currently produces more than 7,000 tonnes of pasteurized camel milk each year, covering local demand and exporting to markets like the EU, China, and the US.

Industry experts say a global standard could speed up approvals in new countries and encourage producers to scale up faster.

Strengthening Food Standards Globally

Moza Suhail Al Muhairi, chair of the UAE National Codex Committee, said the approval strengthens the UAE’s position as a leader in global food standards—especially for high-value products like camel milk.

She added that the move supports the UAE’s wider goal of boosting local supply chains while increasing the nutritional and economic value of camel milk worldwide.

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