India has achieved significant milestones at the 49th Session of the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC49) held in Geneva in Switzerland. The session was organised from 6th to 10th of this month. Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has said that the Commission adopted seven Codex standards and guidelines developed under India’s chairmanship andco-chairmanship. It reinforces India’s contribution to the development of science-based international food standards. The Indian delegation, led by Rajit Punhani, Chief Executive Officer, Food Safety and Standards Authority of India participated actively in the Commission’sdeliberations along with technical experts.
In an another major achievement, the Commission approved India’s proposal to undertake new work for the development of a Codex Standard for Cashew Kernels. The Commission also adopted the Codex Standards for Dried Coriander Seeds and Fresh Curry Leaves, both developed under India’s chairmanship. The Standard for Dried Coriander Seeds would facilitate trade in one of the world’s most widely traded spices, while the Standard for Fresh Curry Leaves provides an international benchmark for this regionally important culinary herb. India has also been elected Co-Chair of the Electronic Working Group established regarding New Food Sources and Production Systems. It will review existing regulatory frameworks, identify gaps in Codex risk analysis principles, and consider the need for any future Codex guidance. The Ministry said that India remains committed to working closely with the Codex Alimentarius Commission, Food and Agriculture Oganisation, World Health Organisaiton and Member Countries in developing science-based, transparent and globally harmonized food standards that support food safety, consumer protection and fair trade.
