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Source- This post on Executive Committee of Codex Alimentarius Commission has been created based on the article “India participates in the 86th session of the Executive Committee of Codex Alimentarius Commission” published in “PIB” on 3 July 2024.
Why in the news?
Recently, India participated in the 86th session of the Executive Committee of Codex Alimentarius Commission.
About the 86th Session of the Executive Committee of Codex Alimentarius Commission
1. India is actively participating in the 86th session of the Executive Committee (CCEXEC) of the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC), which is being held from 1st to 5th July 2024 at the FAO Headquarters in Rome.
2. Shri G Kamala Vardhana Rao, the CEO of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), is representing India at this important session.
3. India’s Contributions:
i) India strongly supported the advancement of standards development for various spices, including small cardamom, turmeric, and vanilla. This initiative is particularly significant for India, a major producer and exporter of these spices, as it will facilitate smoother international trade.
ii) Additionally, India backed the progression of standards for named vegetable oils, guidelines for controlling Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli, and the safe use and reuse of water in food production and processing.
iii) India also championed the proposal for developing Codex guidance on food safety considerations related to the use of recycled materials in food packaging. This initiative is crucial for addressing global challenges such as climate change, environmental protection, and sustainability.
iv) India’s participation as a member elected on a geographic basis (Asia) underscores its dedication to establishing robust food safety standards and promoting fair practices in the global food trade.
About Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC)
1. About: The Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC) is an international food standards body jointly established by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO) in May 1963.
2. Mission: Its mission is to develop and harmonize food standards at the global level.
3. Membership: The CAC has 189 Codex Members, including 188 Member Countries and 1 Member Organization (The European Union). India became a member in 1964.
4. Objectives:
i) Develop and adopt international food standards (Codex Standards).
ii) Ensure food safety and quality.
iii) Facilitate fair trade practices in food products.
iv) Protect consumer health.
5. Executive Committee (CCEXEC): This executive body assists in shaping international food standards. India, as the Regional Coordinator for the FAO/WHO Regional Coordinating Committee for Asia (CCASIA), is a member of the CCEXEC.
6. Composition of CCEXEC: It involves chair, Three Vice Chairs, six Regional Coordinators and seven Elected Representatives from different geographical regions of Codex.
7. The CAC meets annually, alternating between Geneva and Rome, and works in the six United Nations official languages.
8. Its provisions cover various aspects of food safety, including hygiene, additives, contaminants, labeling, and risk analysis.
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