[Federal Register Volume 83, Number 153 (Wednesday, August 8, 2018)]
[Notices]
[Pages 39041-39050]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2018-16944]


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 Notices
                                                 Federal Register
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 This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains documents other than rules 
 or proposed rules that are applicable to the public. Notices of hearings 
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 delegations of authority, filing of petitions and applications and agency 
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  Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 153 / Wednesday, August 8, 2018 / 
Notices  

[[Page 39041]]



DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

Food Safety and Inspection Service

[Docket No. FSIS-2018-0013]


Trade and Foreign Agriculture Affairs; Codex Alimentarius 
Commission: International Standard-Setting Activities

AGENCY: Office of Trade and Foreign Agriculture Affairs (TFAA), USDA.

ACTION: Notice.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: This notice informs the public of the sanitary and 
phytosanitary standard-setting activities of the Codex Alimentarius 
Commission (Codex), in accordance with section 491 of the Trade 
Agreements Act of 1979, as amended, and the Uruguay Round Agreements 
Act. This notice also provides a list of other standard-setting 
activities of Codex, including commodity standards, guidelines, codes 
of practice, and revised texts. This notice, which covers Codex 
activities during the time periods from June 1, 2016, to May 31, 2017, 
and June 1, 2017, to July 20, 2018, seeks comments on standards under 
consideration and recommendations for new standards.

ADDRESSES: The U.S. Codex Office invites interested persons to submit 
their comments on this notice. Comments may be submitted by one of the 
following methods:
     Federal e-Rulemaking Portal: This website provides the 
ability to type short comments directly into the comment field on this 
web page or attach a file for lengthier comments. Go to http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the on-line instructions at the website for 
submitting comments.
     Mail, including CD-ROMs, etc.: Send to Docket Clerk, U.S. 
Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Mailstop 3758, Room 6065, Washington, DC 20250-
3700.
     Hand- or courier-delivered submittals: Deliver to 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Room 6065, Washington, DC 20250-3700.
    Instructions: All items submitted by mail or email are to include 
the Agency name and docket number FSIS-2018-0013. Comments received in 
response to this docket will be made available for public inspection 
and posted without change, including any personal information to http://www.regulations.gov.
    Please state that your comments refer to Codex and, if your 
comments relate to specific Codex committees, please identify the 
committee(s) in your comments and submit a copy of your comments to the 
delegate from that particular committee.
    Docket: For access to background documents or comments received, 
call (202) 720-5627 to schedule a time to visit the FSIS Docket Room at 
1400 Independence Avenue SW, Room 6065, Washington, DC 20250-3700.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mary Frances Lowe, United States 
Manager for Codex Alimentarius, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office 
of Food Safety, South Agriculture Building, 1400 Independence Avenue 
SW, Room 4861, Washington, DC 20250-3700; Telephone: (202) 205-7760; 
Fax: (202) 720-3157; Email: [email protected].
    For information pertaining to particular committees, contact the 
delegate of that committee. A complete list of U.S. delegates and 
alternate delegates can be found in Attachment 2 of this notice. 
Documents pertaining to Codex and specific committee agendas are 
accessible via the internet at http://www.codexalimentarius.org/meetings-reports/en/. The U.S. Codex Office also maintains a website at 
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/international-affairs/us-codex-alimentarius.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Background

    The World Trade Organization (WTO) was established on January 1, 
1995, as the common international institutional framework for the 
conduct of trade relations among its members in matters related to the 
Uruguay Round Trade Agreements. The WTO is the successor organization 
to the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT). United States 
membership in the WTO was approved and the Uruguay Round Agreements Act 
(Uruguay Round Agreements) was signed into law by the President on 
December 8, 1994, Public Law 103-465, 108 Stat. 4809. The Uruguay Round 
Agreements became effective, with respect to the United States, on 
January 1, 1995. The Uruguay Round Agreements amended the Trade 
Agreements Act of 1979. Pursuant to section 491 of the Trade Agreements 
Act of 1979, as amended, the President is required to designate an 
agency to be ``responsible for informing the public of the sanitary and 
phytosanitary (SPS) standard-setting activities of each international 
standard-setting organization'' (19 U.S.C. 2578). The main 
international standard-setting organizations are Codex, the World 
Organisation for Animal Health, and the International Plant Protection 
Convention. The President, pursuant to Proclamation No. 6780 of March 
23, 1995, (60 FR 15845), designated the U.S. Department of Agriculture 
as the agency responsible for informing the public of the SPS standard-
setting activities of each international standard-setting organization. 
The Secretary of Agriculture has delegated to the Office of Trade and 
Foreign Agricultural Affairs the responsibility to inform the public of 
the SPS standard-setting activities of Codex. The Office of Trade and 
Foreign Agricultural Affairs has, in turn, assigned the responsibility 
for informing the public of the SPS standard-setting activities of 
Codex to the U.S. Codex Office (USCO).
    Codex was created in 1963 by two United Nations organizations, the 
Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Health 
Organization (WHO). Codex is the principal international organization 
for establishing standards for food. Through adoption of food 
standards, codes of practice, and other guidelines developed by its 
committees and by promoting their adoption and implementation by 
governments, Codex seeks to protect the health of consumers, ensure 
fair practices in the food trade, and promote coordination of food 
standards work undertaken by international governmental and 
nongovernmental organizations. In the United States, U.S. Codex 
activities are managed and carried out by the United States Department 
of Agriculture (USDA); the Food and Drug

[[Page 39042]]

Administration (FDA), Department of Health and Human Services (HHS); 
the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Department 
of Commerce (DOC); and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
    As the agency responsible for informing the public of the SPS 
standard-setting activities of Codex, the U.S. Codex Office publishes 
this notice in the Federal Register annually. Attachment 1 (Sanitary 
and Phytosanitary Activities of Codex) sets forth the following 
information:
    1. The SPS standards under consideration or planned for 
consideration; and
    2. For each SPS standard specified:
    a. A description of the consideration or planned consideration of 
the standard;
    b. Whether the United States is participating or plans to 
participate in the consideration of the standard;
    c. The agenda for United States participation, if any; and
    d. The agency responsible for representing the United States with 
respect to the standard.
    TO OBTAIN COPIES OF THE STANDARDS LISTED IN ATTACHMENT 1, PLEASE 
CONTACT THE CODEX DELEGATE OR THE U.S. CODEX OFFICE.
    This notice also solicits public comment on standards that are 
currently under consideration or planned for consideration and 
recommendations for new standards. The delegate, in conjunction with 
the responsible agency, will take the comments received into account in 
participating in the consideration of the standards and in proposing 
matters to be considered by Codex.
    The U.S. delegate will facilitate public participation in the 
United States Government's activities relating to Codex. The U.S. 
delegate will maintain a list of individuals, groups, and organizations 
that have expressed an interest in the activities of the Codex 
Committees and will disseminate information regarding U.S. delegation 
activities to interested parties. This information will include the 
status of each agenda item; the U.S. Government's position or 
preliminary position on the agenda items; and the time and place of 
planning meetings and debriefing meetings following the Codex committee 
sessions. In addition, the U.S. Codex Office makes much of the same 
information available through its web page at http://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/international-affairs/us-codex-alimentarius. If 
you would like to access or receive information about specific 
committees, please visit the web page or notify the appropriate U.S. 
delegate or the U.S. Codex Office, Room 4861, South Agriculture 
Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-3700 
([email protected]).
    The information provided in Attachment 1 describes the status of 
Codex standard-setting activities by the Codex Committees for the time 
periods from June 1, 2016, to May 31, 2017, and June 1, 2017, to July 
20, 2018. Attachment 2 provides a list of U.S. Codex Officials 
(including U.S. delegates and alternate delegates). A list of 
forthcoming Codex sessions may be found at: http://www.fao.org/fao-who-codexalimentarius/meetings/en/.

Additional Public Notification

    Public awareness of all segments of rulemaking and policy 
development is important. Consequently, FSIS will announce this Federal 
Register publication on-line through the FSIS web page located at: 
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/federal-register.

    Done at Washington, DC.
Mary Frances Lowe,
U.S. Manager for Codex Alimentarius.

Attachment 1

Sanitary and Phytosanitary Activities of Codex

Codex Alimentarius Commission and Executive Committee

    The Codex Alimentarius Commission convened for its 41st Session 
July 2-6, 2018, in Rome, Italy. At that time, the Commission adopted 
standards recommended by Committees at Step at 8 or Step 5/8 (final 
adoption), and it advanced the work of Committees by adopting draft 
standards at Step 5 (for further comment and consideration by the 
relevant committee). The Commission also considered proposals for 
new work; discontinuation of work; amendments to Codex standards and 
related texts; matters arising from the reports of the Commission, 
the Executive Committee and subsidiary bodies; committees working by 
correspondence and a possible pilot for a committee on standards 
advancement; regular review of Codex work management; Codex 
budgetary and financial matters for 2020-2021; FAO/WHO Scientific 
Support for Codex activities; matters arising from FAO and WHO; 
reports on side events on FAO and WHO capacity development 
activities, the Codex Trust Fund, and discussion panels with 
International Government Organizations and Non-Governmental 
Organizations; election of the chairperson and vice-chairpersons of 
Codex; and other business.
    Before the Commission meeting, the Executive Committee met for 
its 75th Session from June 26 to 29, 2018. It is composed of the 
chairperson and vice-chairpersons of the CAC; seven members elected 
by the Commission from each of the following geographic regions: 
Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean, Near East, 
North America, and South-West Pacific; and regional coordinators 
from the six regional committees. The United States participated as 
the member elected on a geographic basis for North America. The 
Executive Committee conducted a critical review of the elaboration 
of Codex standards; reviewed the implementation status of the 2014-
2019 Strategic Plan and preparation of the 2020-2025 Strategic Plan; 
and considered the work of committees working by correspondence and 
the possibility of a pilot for a committee on standards advancement, 
FAO/WHO Scientific Support for Codex work, other matters arising 
from FAO and WHO, and financial and budgetary issues.
    Responsible Agency: USDA/TFAA/USCO.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Residues of Veterinary Drugs in Foods

    The Codex Committee on Residues of Veterinary Drugs in Foods 
(CCRVDF) determines priorities for the consideration of residues of 
veterinary drugs in foods and recommends Maximum Residue Limits 
(MRLs) for veterinary drugs. The Committee also develops codes of 
practice, as may be required, and considers methods of sampling and 
analysis for the determination of veterinary drug residues in food. 
A veterinary drug is defined as any substance applied or 
administered to any food producing animal such as meat or milk 
producing animals, poultry, fish, or bees, whether used for 
therapeutic, prophylactic or diagnostic purposes, or for 
modification of physiological functions or behavior.
    A Codex MRL for residues of veterinary drugs is the maximum 
concentration of residue resulting from the use of a veterinary drug 
(expressed in mg/kg or ug/kg on a fresh weight basis) that is 
recommended by the Codex Alimentarius Commission to be permitted or 
recognized as acceptable in or on a food. Residues of a veterinary 
drug include the parent compounds or their metabolites in any edible 
portion of the animal product, and include residues of associated 
impurities of the veterinary drug concerned. An MRL is based on the 
type and amount of residue considered to be without any 
toxicological hazard for human health as expressed by the Acceptable 
Daily Intake (ADI) or on the basis of a temporary ADI that utilizes 
an additional safety factor. When establishing an MRL, consideration 
is also given to residues that occur in food of plant origin or the 
environment. Furthermore, the MRL may be reduced to be consistent 
with official recommended or authorized usage, approved by national 
authorities, of the veterinary drugs under practical conditions.
    An ADI is an estimate made by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee 
on Food Additives (JECFA) of the amount of a veterinary drug, 
expressed on a body weight basis, which can be ingested daily in 
food over a lifetime without appreciable health risk.
    The Committee convened for its 24th Session (CCRVDF24) in 
Chicago, Illinois, April 23-27, 2018. The relevant document is 
REP18/RVDF. The following items were

[[Page 39043]]

adopted by the 41st Session of the Commission in July 2018:
    Adopted at Step 5/8:
     Proposed draft MRLs for amoxicillin (finfish fillet, 
muscle); ampicillin (finfish fillet, muscle; lufenuron (salmon and 
trout fillet); monepantel (cattle fat, kidney, liver, muscle).
    Adopted at Step 8:
     Draft Risk Management Recommendation for gentian 
violet.
    Adopted at Step 5:
     Proposed draft MRL for flumethrin (honey).
    The Commission also adopted the proposed amendment to the Risk 
Analysis Principles Applied by CCRVDF in the Codex Procedural 
Manual, and approved new work on the priority list of veterinary 
drugs for evaluation by the Joint Expert Committee on Food 
Additives, as recommended by CCRVDF24.
    The Committee will continue working on the following items:
     Proposed draft MRLs for zilpaterol hydrochloride 
(cattle fat, kidney, liver, muscle);
     Draft Priority List of veterinary drugs requiring 
approval by CAC;
     Discussion paper on extrapolation of MRLs to one or 
more species (including a pilot on extrapolation of MRLs identified 
in Part D of the Priority List);
     Coordination with the Codex Committee on Pesticide 
Residues/Electronic Working Group on the revision of the 
Classification of Food and Feed for the development of a harmonized 
definition for edible offal/animal tissues for the establishment of 
MRLs;
     Database on countries needs for MRLs; and
     Discussion paper on advantages and disadvantages of a 
parallel approach to compound evaluation.
    The following items were discontinued:
     Discussion paper on the revision of the criteria for 
the use of multi-residue analytical methods for the determination 
and identification of veterinary drugs in foods in the Guidelines 
for the design and implementation of national regulatory food safety 
assurance programs associated with the use of veterinary drugs in 
food producing animals; and
     Discussion paper on MRLs for groups of fish species.
    Responsible Agencies: HHS/FDA/Center for Veterinary Medicine; 
USDA/FSIS.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Contaminants in Foods

    The Codex Committee on Contaminants in Foods (CCCF) establishes 
or endorses permitted maximum levels (MLs), as necessary, revises 
existing guideline levels (GLs) for contaminants and naturally 
occurring toxicants in food and feed; prepares priority lists of 
contaminants and naturally occurring toxicants for risk assessment 
by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA); 
considers and elaborates methods of analysis and sampling for the 
determination of contaminants and naturally occurring toxicants in 
food and feed; considers and elaborates on standards or codes of 
practice (COPs) for related subjects; and considers other matters 
assigned to it by the Commission in relation to contaminants and 
naturally occurring toxicants in food and feed.
    The Committee convened for its 12th Session (CCCF12) in Utrecht, 
the Netherlands, March 12-16, 2018. The relevant document is REP18/
CF. The following standards were forwarded to the CAC for 
consideration and adopted by the 41st Session of the Commission in 
July 2018:
    Adopted at Step 5/8:
     MLs for lead in selected commodities (revision of MLs 
and consequential revocation of corresponding MLs/amendments to MLs 
in the General Standard for Contaminants and Toxins in Food and Feed 
(GSCTFF) (CXS 193-1995));
     MLs for cadmium in chocolate containing or declaring 
>=50% to <70% total cocoa solids on a dry matter basis; and 
chocolate containing or declaring >=70% total cocoa solids on a dry 
matter basis;
     MLs for methylmercury in tuna, alfonsino, marlin and 
shark, and revocation of the GLs for methylmercury in predatory and 
non-predatory fish;
     Amendment to the note for the ML on inorganic arsenic 
in rice (consequential amendment); and
     COP for the prevention and reduction of dioxins, 
dioxin-like PCBs and non-dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) 
contamination in food and feed.
    Adopted at Step 5:
     COP for the reduction of 3-MCPDE and GE in refined oils 
and products made with refined oils; and
     Guidelines for risk analysis of instances of 
contaminants in food where there is no regulatory level or risk 
management framework established.
    The Commission also approved discontinuation of work on the 
following items, as recommended by CCCF12:
     Establishment of MLs for cadmium in dry mixtures of 
cocoa and sugars sold for final consumption; and
     Establishment of MLs for methylmercury in amberjack and 
swordfish.
    The Committee suspended working on the following items:
     Establishment of MLs for total aflatoxins in ready-to-
eat peanuts; and
     Establishment of MLs for total aflatoxins and 
ochratoxin A in nutmeg, chili and paprika, ginger, pepper and 
turmeric.
    The Committee will continue working on the following items:
     MLs for lead in wine and edible offals;
     MLs for cadmium in chocolate and cocoa-derived products 
(category of chocolate and chocolate products containing or 
declaring (1) <30% and (2) >=30% to <50% total cocoa solids on a dry 
matter basis;
     Discussion paper on establishment of MLs for 
hydrocyanic acid (HCN) in cassava and cassava-based products and 
occurrence of mycotoxins in these products;
     Discussion paper on structured approach to prioritize 
commodities for which new MLs for lead could be established for 
inclusion in the General Standard for Contaminants and Toxins in 
Food and Feed;
     Discussion paper on aflatoxins in cereals 
(establishment of MLs for total aflatoxins in wheat, maize, sorghum 
and rice (specifying the categories));
     Discussion paper on development of a COP for the 
prevention and reduction of cadmium contamination in cocoa;
     Discussion paper on forward workplan for CCCF; and
     Priority list of contaminants and naturally occurring 
toxicants for evaluation by JECFA.
    The Committee also agreed to start discussion on the following 
items:
     Discussion paper on lead and cadmium in quinoa;
     Discussion paper on general guidance on data analysis 
for ML development; and
     Discussion paper, including a project document, for a 
proposal for new work on the revision of the COP for prevention and 
reduction of lead contamination in foods (CXC 56-2004).
    Responsible Agencies: HHS/FDA; USDA/FSIS.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Food Additives

    The Codex Committee on Food Additives (CCFA) establishes or 
endorses acceptable maximum levels (MLs) for individual food 
additives; prepares a priority list of food additives for risk 
assessment by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives 
(JECFA); assigns functional classes to individual food additives; 
recommends specifications of identity and purity for food additives 
for adoption by the Codex Alimentarius Commission; considers methods 
of analysis for the determination of additives in food; and 
considers and elaborates standards or codes of practice for related 
subjects such as the labeling of food additives when sold as such. 
The 50th Session of the Committee (CCFA50) convened in Xiamen, 
China, March 26-30, 2018. The relevant document is REP18/FA. 
Immediately prior to the Plenary Session, there was a two-day 
physical Working Group (PWG) on the General Standard for Food 
Additives (GSFA) chaired by the United States.
    The following items were recommended by CCFA50 and considered by 
the 41st Session of the Commission in July 2018:
    Adopted at Step 5/8:
     Proposed draft specifications for the identity and 
purity of food additives; and
     Proposed draft amendments to the Class Names and 
International Numbering System (INS) for Food Additives (CAC/GL 36-
1989).
    Adopted at Step 8 and 5/8:
     Draft and proposed draft food additive provisions of 
the GSFA.
    Adopted:
     Replacement of the name ``sodium aluminosilicate'' with 
``sodium aluminum silicate'' in the GSFA (CXS 192-1995); Class Names 
and the INS for Food Additives (CXG 36-1989); Standard for Milk 
Powders and Cream Powder (CXS 207-1999); Standard for a Blend of 
Skimmed Milk and Vegetable Fat in Powdered Form (CXS 251-2006); and 
Standard for Edible Casein Products (CXS 290-1995);
     Revised food additive provisions of the GSFA related to 
the alignment of the annexes of the Standard for Certain Canned 
Fruits

[[Page 39044]]

(CXS 319-2015) and to the alignment of 14 standards for fish and 
fish products; and
     Revised food additive sections of 14 standards for fish 
and fish products and the Standard for Certain Canned Fruits (CXS 
319-2015).
    Revoked:
     Food additive provisions of the GSFA;
     Food-additive provisions for specific malates and/or 
tartrates from the Standards for Mozzarella (CXS 262-2006), Cottage 
Cheese (CXS 273-1968), Cream Cheese (CXS 275-1973), Fermented Milks 
(CXS 243-2003), and Dairy Fat Spreads (CXS 253-2006) due to a lack 
of JECFA specifications for these additives; and
     Food-additive provisions for sodium sorbate (INS 201) 
from the Standards for Instant Noodles (CXS 249-2006), Fermented 
Milks (CXS 243-2003), Dairy Fat Spreads (CXS 253-2006), Cottage 
Cheese (CXS 273-1968), Cream Cheese (CXS 275-1973), the General 
Standard for Cheese (CXS 283-197), and 11 standards for named 
cheeses due to a lack of JECFA specifications for the additive.
    The Committee will continue working on:
     Draft and proposed draft food additive provisions of 
the GSFA, and technological justification for the use of 
preservatives and anticaking agents for surface treatment of 
mozzarella with high moisture content covered by Standard for 
Mozzarella (CXS 262-2006) (EWG led by the United States);
     Proposals for additions and changes to the Priority 
List of Substances Proposed for Evaluation by JECFA (PWG led by 
Canada);
     Alignment of the food additive provisions of commodity 
standards and relevant provisions of the GSFA; consider revisions to 
the ``References to Commodity Standard for GSFA Table 3 Additives'' 
section of Table 3; proposed revisions to food-additive provisions 
in Food Categories 13.1.1, 13.1.2, and 13.1.3 for ascorbyl palmitate 
(INS 304) and ascorbyl stearate (INS 305) (EWG led by Australia, 
Japan and the United States);
     Revision of the Class Names and the INS for Food 
additives (EWG led by Iran and Belgium);
     New or revised provisions of the GSFA (PWG led by the 
United States);
     Clarification of the appropriate descriptors for Food 
Categories 14.1.4.2 and 14.1.5 for ready-to-drink coffee and tea 
beverages (Codex Secretariat);
     Review of all group food additives in the GSFA to 
determine if all food-additives in the group share a Group 
Acceptable Daily Intake (Codex Secretariat in consultation with 
JECFA Secretariat);
     Development of an inventory of data available on the 
use of nitrates (INS 251, 252) and nitrites (INS 249, 250) with a 
view to consulting with JECFA and CCFA regarding next steps (eWG led 
by the European Union and the Netherlands);
     Development of an alternative to Note 161 relating to 
the use of sweeteners and, subject to agreement on the wording of an 
alternative, review of recommendations in CX FA 14/47/13 in the 
context of pending and adopted provisions (EWG led by United States 
and the European Union); and
     Preparation of a discussion paper on the use of the 
terms ``fresh'', ``plain'', ``unprocessed'' and ``untreated'' in 
existing Codex texts (Russian Federation).
    The Committee also agreed to hold a one and one-half day PWG on 
the GSFA immediately preceding the 51st Session of the CCFA, to be 
chaired by the United States. That group will discuss the 
recommendations of the EWG on the GSFA, new proposals and proposed 
revisions of food additive provisions in the GSFA.
    The Committee also agreed to hold a half day PWG on the GSFA 
immediately preceding the 51st Session of the CCFA to be chaired by 
Australia. That group will discuss the recommendations of the PWG on 
alignment.
    Responsible Agency: HHS/FDA.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Pesticide Residues

    The Codex Committee on Pesticide Residues (CCPR) is responsible 
for establishing MRLs for pesticide residues in specific food items 
or in groups of food; establishing MRLs for pesticide residues in 
certain animal feeding stuffs moving in international trade where 
this is justified for reasons of protection of human health; 
preparing priority lists of pesticides for evaluation by the Joint 
FAO/WHO Meeting on Pesticide Residues (JMPR); considering methods of 
sampling and analysis for the determination of pesticide residues in 
food and feed; considering other matters in relation to the safety 
of food and feed containing pesticide residues; and establishing 
maximum limits for environmental and industrial contaminants showing 
chemical or other similarity to pesticides in specific food items or 
groups of food.
    The 50th Session of the Committee (CCPR50) met in Haikou, China, 
April 9-14, 2018. The relevant document is REP18/PR. The following 
items were considered at the 41st Session of the Codex Alimentarius 
Commission in July 2018:
    Adopted at Step 8 and 5/8:
     Three hundred eighty-six (386) MRLs for different 
pesticide residues.
     Revisions of the Classification: Class A--Primary 
Commodities of Plant Origin--Type 04 Nuts, Seeds, and SAPs (Step 8 
and 5/8);
     Revision of the Classification: Class A-Primary 
Commodities of Plant Origin--Type 05 Herbs and Spices (Step 8).
    Adopted at Step 5/8:
     Tables with Examples of Representative Commodities for 
Commodity Groups in Type 04 and Type 05 (For inclusion in the 
Principles and Guidance for the Selection of Representative 
Commodities for the Extrapolation of Maximum Residue Limits for 
Pesticides for Commodity Groups).
    The Commission also discontinued work, approved new work, and 
revoked existing MRLs as recommended by CCPR50.
    The Committee will continue working on the following items:
     Revision of the Classification: Impact of the Revised 
Commodity Groups and Subgroups in Type 03, Type 04 and Type 05 on 
the CXLs adopted by the Codex Alimentarius Commission;
     Draft and proposed draft Revision of the Classification 
of Food and Feed;
     Development of a system within the classification of 
food and feed to provide codes for commodities not meeting the 
criteria for crop grouping;
     Discussion Paper on the review of the International 
Estimated Short-term Intake Equations (IESTI);
     Discussion paper on management of unsupported 
compounds;
     Discussion paper on biopesticides;
     Discussion paper on the revision of the guidelines on 
the use of mass spectrometry for the identification, confirmation 
and quantitative determination of residues;
     Discussion paper on the opportunities and challenges 
related to the participation of JMPR in an international joint 
review of a new compounds;
     National Registration Database of Pesticides; and
     Establishment of Codex Schedules and Priority Lists of 
Pesticides.
    Responsible Agencies: EPA; USDA/FSIS.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Food Import and Export Inspection and Certification 
Systems

    The Codex Committee on Food Import and Export Inspection and 
Certification Systems (CCFICS) is responsible for developing 
principles and guidelines for food import and export inspection and 
certification systems, with a view to harmonizing methods and 
procedures that protect the health of consumers, ensure fair trading 
practices, and facilitate international trade in foodstuffs; 
developing principles and guidelines for the application of measures 
by the competent authorities of exporting and importing countries to 
provide assurance, where necessary, that foodstuffs comply with 
requirements, especially statutory health requirements; developing 
guidelines for the utilization, as and when appropriate, of quality 
assurance systems to ensure that foodstuffs conform with 
requirements and promote the recognition of these systems in 
facilitating trade in food products under bilateral/multilateral 
arrangements by countries; developing guidelines and criteria with 
respect to format, declarations, and language of such official 
certificates as countries may require with a view towards 
international harmonization; making recommendations for information 
exchange in relation to food import/export control; consulting as 
necessary with other international groups working on matters related 
to food inspection and certification systems; and considering other 
matters assigned to it by the Commission in relation to food 
inspection and certification systems. The 24th Session of the 
Committee will convene in Brisbane, Australia, October 22-26, 2018.
    The Committee will continue working on the following items:
     Project document for new work on guidance on paperless 
use of electronic certificates (Revision of Guidelines for Design, 
Production, Issuance and Use of Generic Official Certificates);
     Project document for new work on guidance on regulatory 
approaches to third party assurance schemes in food safety and fair 
practices in the food trade;

[[Page 39045]]

     Discussion paper on food integrity and food 
authenticity;
     Discussion paper on consideration of emerging issues 
and future directions for the work of the Codex Committee on Food 
Import and Export Inspection and Certification Systems;
     Framework for the preliminary assessment and 
identification of priority areas for CCFICs; and
     Inter-sessional physical working groups: trial.
    Responsible Agencies: USDA/FSIS; HHS/FDA.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Methods of Analysis and Sampling

    The Codex Committee on Methods of Analysis and Sampling (CCMAS) 
defines the criteria appropriate to Codex Methods of Analysis and 
Sampling; serves as a coordinating body for Codex with other 
international groups working on methods of analysis and sampling and 
quality assurance systems for laboratories; specifies, on the basis 
of final recommendations submitted to it by the bodies referred to 
above, reference methods of analysis and sampling appropriate to 
Codex standards which are generally applicable to a number of foods; 
considers, amends if necessary, and endorses as appropriate, methods 
of analysis and sampling proposed by Codex commodity committees, 
except for methods of analysis and sampling for residues of 
pesticides or veterinary drugs in food, the assessment of 
microbiological quality and safety in food, and the assessment of 
specifications for food additives; elaborates sampling plans and 
procedures, as may be required; considers specific sampling and 
analysis problems submitted to it by the Commission or any of its 
Committees; and defines procedures, protocols, guidelines or related 
texts for the assessment of food laboratory proficiency, as well as 
quality assurance systems for laboratories.
    The 39th Session of the Committee (CCMAS39) met in Budapest, 
Hungary, May 7-11, 2018. The relevant document is REP18/MAS.
    At its 41st Session in July 2018, the Commission adopted, 
amended and revoked methods of analysis and sampling as recommended 
by CCMAS39. The Commission also approved new work as proposed by 
CCMAS:
     Revision of the Guidelines on Measurement Uncertainty 
(CXG 54-2004); and
     Project plan and amendment of the General Guidelines on 
Sampling (CXG 50-2004).
    The Committee will continue working on the following item:
     Review/Revision of the General Standard for Methods of 
Analysis and Sampling (CSX 234.
    At CCMAS 39, the Committee agreed to discontinue work on 
criteria for endorsement of biological methods to detect chemicals 
of concern.
    Responsible Agencies: HHS/FDA; USDA/AMS.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Food Labelling

    The Codex Committee on Food Labelling (CCFL) drafts provisions 
on labeling applicable to all foods; considers, amends, and endorses 
draft specific provisions on labeling prepared by the Codex 
Committees drafting standards, codes of practice, guidelines; and 
studies specific labeling problems assigned by the Codex 
Alimentarius Commission. The Committee also studies problems 
associated with the advertisement of food with particular reference 
to claims and misleading descriptions.
    The Committee convened its 44th Session (CCFL44) in Asuncion, 
Paraguay, October 16-20, 2017. The relevant document is REP18/FL. 
The following item was adopted by the Commission at its 41st Session 
in July 2018, as recommended by CCFL44:
    Adopted at Step 8:
     Draft Revision of the General Standard for the 
Labelling of Prepackaged Foods: Date marking.
    The Committee will continue working on the following items:
     Proposed draft Guidance for the Labelling of Non-Retail 
Containers;
     Proposed draft Guidelines on Front of Pack Nutrition 
Labelling;
     Discussion paper on internet sales/e-commerce;
     Discussion paper on allergen labelling;
     Discussion paper on innovation--use of technology in 
food labelling;
     Discussion paper on labelling of alcoholic beverages;
     Discussion paper on criteria for the definition of 
``high in'' nutritional descriptors for fats, sugars and sodium;
     Discussion paper on labelling of foods in joint 
presentation and multipack formats; and
     Discussion paper on future work and direction of CCFL 
(update).
    Responsible Agencies: HHS/FDA; USDA/FSIS.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Food Hygiene

    The Codex Committee on Food Hygiene (CCFH):
     Develops basic provisions on food hygiene, applicable 
to all food or to specific food types;
     Considers and amends or endorses provisions on food 
hygiene contained in Codex commodity standards and codes of practice 
developed by Codex commodity committees;
     Considers specific food hygiene problems assigned to it 
by the Commission;
     Suggests and prioritizes areas where there is a need 
for microbiological risk assessment at the international level and 
develops questions to be addressed by the risk assessors; and
     Considers microbiological risk management matters in 
relation to food hygiene and in relation to the FAO/WHO risk 
assessments.
    The Committee convened for its 49th Session (CCFH49) in Chicago, 
Illinois, November 13-17, 2017. The relevant document is REP 18/FH. 
The following item was adopted by the 41st Session of the Commission 
in July 2018, as recommended by CCFH49:
    Adopted at Step 5/8:
     Proposed draft Revision of the Code of Practice (COP) 
for Fish and Fishery Products (Guidance for histamine control), with 
minor amendment accepted to section 13.1.2.
    The Commission also approved new work as recommended by CCFH49:
     Code of Practice on food allergen management for food 
business operators; and
     Guidance for the management of (micro)biological 
foodborne crises/outbreaks.
    The Committee will continue working on the following items:
     Proposed draft Revision of the General Principles of 
Food Hygiene and its HACCP Annex;
     The placement for the guidance on histamine control in 
CXC 52-2003, the amendments of other sections of CXC 52-3002, and 
the revision of the section on sampling, examination and analyses in 
standards for fish and fishery products related to histamine food 
safety;
     Discussion paper on future work on Shiga toxin-
producing Escherichia coli (STEC); and
     New work proposals/Forward Workplan.
    Responsible Agencies: HHS/FDA; USDA/FSIS.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Fresh Fruits and Vegetables

    The Codex Committee on Fresh Fruits and Vegetables (CCFFV) is 
responsible for elaborating worldwide standards and codes of 
practice, as may be appropriate, for fresh fruits and vegetables, 
consulting as necessary, with other international organizations in 
the standards development process to avoid duplication.
    The 20th Session of the Committee (CCFFV20) met in Kampala, 
Uganda, October 2-6, 2017. The relevant document is REP 18/FFV.
    The following items were considered by the Commission at its 
40th Session in July 2018, and the Commission took action as 
recommended by CCFFV20:
    Adopted at Step 8:
     Draft Standard for Aubergines.
    Adopted at Step 5:
     Draft Standard for Ware Potatoes.
    Approved new work:
     Standards for yam, onions and shallots, and berry 
fruits.
    The Committee will continue working on the following items:
     Proposed Layout for Standards for Fresh Fruits and 
Vegetables;
     Draft Standard for Garlic;
     Draft Standard for Kiwifruit;
     Draft Standard for Ware Potatoes;
     Proposed Draft Standard for Fresh Dates;
     Discussion paper on glossary of terms used in the 
layout for Codex standards for fresh fruits and vegetables; and
     Recommendation on the inclusion of mono and di-
glycerides of fatty acids and salts of myristic, palmitic and 
stearic acids with ammonia, calcium, potassium and sodium in the 
GSFA under the food categories ``surface-treated fresh fruits'' and 
``surface treated fresh vegetables.''

[[Page 39046]]

    Responsible Agencies: USDA/Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS); 
HHS/FDA.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Nutrition and Foods for Special Dietary Uses

    The Codex Committee on Nutrition and Foods for Special Dietary 
Uses (CCNFSDU) is responsible for studying nutrition issues referred 
to it by the Codex Alimentarius Commission. The Committee also 
drafts general provisions, as appropriate, on nutritional aspects of 
all foods and develops standards, guidelines, and related texts for 
foods for special dietary uses, in cooperation with other committees 
where necessary; considers, amends if necessary, and endorses 
provisions on nutritional aspects proposed for inclusion in Codex 
standards, guidelines, and related texts.
    The Committee convened for its 39th Session (CCNFSDU) in Berlin, 
Germany, December 4-8, 2017. The reference document is REP 18/NFSDU. 
The following item was adopted by the Commission at its 41st Session 
in July 2-6, 2018, as recommended by CCNFSDU39.
    Adopted at Step 5:
     Review of the Standard for Follow-up Formula: Proposed 
``Essential composition requirements for older infants and young 
children.''
    The Committee will continue working on the following items:
     Proposed draft Claim for ``free of'' trans fatty acids;
     Discussion of biological methods used to detect 
chemicals of concern;
     Review of the Standard for Follow-up Formula: Scope, 
product definition, labelling;
     Proposed draft definition for biofortification;
     Proposed draft Nutrient Reference Values--
Noncommunicable Disease (NRV-NCD) for EPA and DHA;
     Proposed draft guideline for ready to use therapeutic 
foods;
     Nutrient Reference Values--Requirements (NRV-R) for 
older infants and young children;
     Mechanism/framework for considering the technological 
justification of food additives;
     Discussion paper on harmonized probiotic guidelines for 
use in foods and dietary supplements; and
     General guidelines to establish nutritional profiles.
    Responsible Agencies: HHS/FDA; USDA/Agricultural Research 
Service (ARS).
    U.S. Participation: Yes.
    Ad hoc Codex Intergovernmental Task Force on Antimicrobial 
Resistance (re-activated in 2016).
    The Ad hoc Codex Intergovernmental Task Force on Antimicrobial 
Resistance (TFAMR) is responsible for (1) reviewing and revising, as 
appropriate, the Code of Practice to Minimize and Contain 
Antimicrobial Resistance (CAC/RCP 61-2005) to address the entire 
food chain, in line with the mandate of Codex; and (2) considering 
the development of Guidance on Integrated Surveillance of 
Antimicrobial Resistance, taking into account the guidance developed 
by the WHO Advisory Group on Integrated Surveillance of 
Antimicrobial Resistance (AGISAR) and relevant World Organisation 
for Animal Health (OIE) documents. The objective of the Task Force 
is to develop science-based guidance on the management of foodborne 
antimicrobial resistance, taking full account of the WHO Global 
Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance, in particular objectives 3 
and 4, the work and standards of relevant international 
organizations, such as FAO, WHO, and OIE, and the One-Health 
approach, to ensure members have the necessary guidance to enable 
coherent management of antimicrobial resistance along the food 
chain. The Task Force is expected to complete its work within three 
(or a maximum of four) sessions.
    The Task Force will convene for its 6th Session (the 2nd Session 
since reactivation in 2016) in the Republic of Korea, December 10-
14, 2018.
    The Committee will continue to discuss:
     The Proposed draft Revision of the Code of Practice to 
Minimize and Contain Antimicrobial Resistance;
     Proposed draft Guidelines on Integrated surveillance of 
Antimicrobial Resistance; and
     Request for Scientific Advice from Food and Agriculture 
Organization (FAO) and World Health Organization (WHO) in 
collaboration with OIE.
    Responsible Agencies: FDA/USDA.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Fats and Oils

    The Codex Committee on Fats and Oils (CCFO) is responsible for 
elaborating worldwide standards for fats and oils of animal, 
vegetable, and marine origin, including margarine and olive oil.
    The Committee will convene in 2019 for its 26th Session.
    The Committee will continue working on the following items:
     Revision of the Standard for Named Vegetable Oils: 
Essential composition of sunflower seed oils;
     Revision of the Standard for Named Vegetable Oils: 
Inclusion of walnut oil, almond oil, hazelnut oil, pistachio oil, 
flaxseed oil, and avocado oil;
     Revision of the Standard for Named Vegetable Oils: 
Replacement of acid value with free fatty acids for virgin palm oil 
and inclusion of free fatty acids for crude palm kernel oil; and
     Revision of the Standard for Olive Oils and Pomace 
Olive Oils (Codex Stan 33-1981).
     Gathering information on technical difficulties in the 
implementation of the fish oil standard, specifically on monitoring 
its application with respect to the conformity of named fish oils 
with the requirements (especially the fatty acid profile), and its 
effect on trade;
     Alignment of food additives provisions in standards for 
fats and oils (except fish oils) and technological justification for 
use of emulsifiers;
     Proposals for new substances to be added to the list of 
acceptable previous cargoes;
     Provision of relevant information (if available from 
Member countries) to the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food 
Additives (JECFA) on the 23 substances on the list of acceptable 
previous cargoes currently on the list; and
     Discussion paper on the applicability of the fatty acid 
composition of all oils listed in Table 1 in relation to the fatty 
acid composition of corresponding crude (unrefined) forms in the 
Standard for Named Vegetable Oils.
    Responsible Agencies: HHS/FDA; USDA/Agricultural Research 
Service (ARS).
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Processed Fruits and Vegetables

    The Codex Committee on Processed Fruits and Vegetables (CCPFV) 
is responsible for elaborating worldwide standards and related texts 
for all types of processed fruits and vegetables including, but not 
limited to canned, dried, and frozen products, as well as fruit and 
vegetable juices and nectars. Proposals for new work were received 
by Executive Committee of the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CCEXEC) 
and approved by CAC40 (July 17-22, 2017) for cashew kernels, chili 
sauce, mango chutney, dried sweet potato, gochujang, dried fruits, 
and canned mixed fruits.
    The Commission authorized CCPFV to work by correspondence until 
CAC 41 (2018) to prioritize the proposals for new work, prepare a 
work plan, and prepare recommendations on the establishment of 
electronic working groups. The Commission at its 41st Session in 
July 2018 endorsed the CCPFV Chairperson's proposed work plan and 
recommendations (1) to establish 7 EWGS to prepare proposed drafts 
for comments and consideration by the CCPFV, and (2) to schedule a 
physical meeting of the Committee at an appropriate time.
    Responsible Agencies: USDA/Agricultural Marketing Service; HHS/
FDA.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Sugars

    The Codex Committee on Sugars (CCS) elaborates worldwide 
standards for all types of sugars and sugar products.
    The Committee has been re-activated to work by correspondence on 
a draft Standard for Non-Centrifuged Dehydrated Sugar Cane Juice. 
The work is behind schedule. The Commission at its 41st Session in 
July 2018 agreed to extend the work by correspondence by one year, 
reporting back to the Commission at its 42nd session, and noted the 
possibility that a physical meeting could be convened.
    Responsible Agencies: HHS/FDA.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Cereals, Pulses and Legumes

    The Codex Committee on Cereals, Pulses and Legumes (CCCPL) 
elaborates worldwide standards and/or codes of practice, as 
appropriate, for cereals, pulses and legumes and their products.
    The Committee has been reactivated to work by correspondence to 
draft an international Codex Standard for quinoa. The following item 
was considered by the Commission at its 41st Session in July 2018:
     Standard for Quinoa
    The Commission agreed to adopt, subject to the endorsement of 
the labelling

[[Page 39047]]

provisions by CCFL45, the draft standard for quinoa at Step 8, 
except for the provisions for moisture content and grain size, which 
were returned to Step 6. The Commission also established an EWG, 
chaired by Costa Rica and co-chaired by Chile and the United States 
of America, to continue the work on the provisions for moisture 
content and grain size. The Commission further encouraged members to 
identify a validated method of analysis for saponins to allow for 
full implementation of the standard.
    Responsible Agencies: HHS/FDA.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Certain Codex Commodity Committees

    Several Codex Alimentarius Commodity Committees have adjourned 
sine die. The following Committees fall into this category:
     Cocoa Products and Chocolate--adjourned 2001.
    Responsible Agency: HHS/FDA; DCO/NOAA.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.
     Fish and Fishery Products--adjourned 2016.
    Responsible Agency: HHS/FDA/NOAA.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.
     Meat Hygiene--adjourned 2003.
    Responsible Agency: USDA/FSIS.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.
     Milk and Milk Products--adjourned 2017.
    Responsible Agency: USDA/AMS; HHS/FDA.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.
     Natural Mineral Waters--adjourned 2008.
    Responsible Agency: HHS/FDA.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.
     Vegetable Proteins--adjourned 1989.
    Responsible Agency: USDA/ARS.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

FAO/WHO Regional Coordinating Committees

    The FAO/WHO Regional Coordinating Committees define the problems 
and needs of the regions concerning food standards and food control; 
promote within the Committee contacts for the mutual exchange of 
information on proposed regulatory initiatives and problems arising 
from food control and stimulate the strengthening of food control 
infrastructures; recommend to the Commission the development of 
worldwide standards for products of interest to the region, 
including products considered by the Committees to have an 
international market potential in the future; develop regional 
standards for food products moving exclusively or almost exclusively 
in intra-regional trade; draw the attention of the Commission to any 
aspects of the Commission's work of particular significance to the 
region; promote coordination of all regional food standards work 
undertaken by international governmental and non-governmental 
organizations within each region; exercise a general coordinating 
role for the region and such other functions as may be entrusted to 
them by the Commission; and promote the use of Codex standards and 
related texts by members.
    There are six regional coordinating committees:
Coordinating Committee for Africa
Coordinating Committee for Asia
Coordinating Committee for Europe
Coordinating Committee for Latin America and the Caribbean
Coordinating Committee for the Near East
Coordinating Committee for North America and the South West Pacific

Coordinating Committee for Africa

    The Committee (CCAFRICA) will convene its 23rd Session in 2019.
    The Committee will continue to work on the following items:
     Proposed draft Regional Standard for Unrefined Shea 
Butter;
     Proposed draft Regional Standard for Fermented Cooked 
Cassava Based Products;
     Proposed draft Regional Standard for Gnetum Spp leaves;
     Priority Setting criteria for the establishment of work 
priorities as laid down in the Codex Procedural Manual;
     Comments on the preparation of the new global Codex 
Strategic Plan;
     Food quality and safety situation in countries of the 
Region (on-line platform, prioritization of needs in the region and 
comments for future consideration);
     Use of Codex Standards in the Region;
     Proposed draft Standard on Dried Meat;
     Discussion paper and project document on a Harmonized 
Food Law; and
     Discussion paper/project on a Regional Standard for a 
Fermented Non-Alcoholic Cereal Based Drink (Mahewu).
    Responsible Agency: USDA/FSIS/USCO.
    U.S. Participation: Yes (as observer).

Coordinating Committee for Asia

    The Committee (CCASIA) will convene its 21st Session in 2019.
    The Committee will continue to work on the following items:
     Report on the status of the Implementation of the 
Activities of the Strategic Plan Relevant to CCASIA;
     Discussion paper and project document on the 
Development of a Regional Standard for Rice Based Low Alcohol 
Beverages (cloudy types);
     Discussion paper and project document on the 
Development of a Regional Standard for Soybean Products Fermented 
with the Bacterium Bacillus Subtilis;
     Discussion paper and project document on the 
Development of a Regional Standard for Quick Frozen Dumpling 
(Jiaozi);
     Discussion paper and the project document on the 
Development of a Regional Standard/Code of Practice for Zongzi;
     Emerging Issues as priorities for the CCASIA region; 
and
     Information sharing on the Food Safety Control Systems.
    Responsible Agency: USDA/FSIS/USCO.
    U.S. Participation: Yes (as observer).

Coordinating Committee for Europe

    The Committee (CCEUROPE) will convene its 31st Session in 2019.
    The Committee will continue to work on the following items:
     Survey of critical and emerging issues;
     On-line Platform and information sharing on the Food 
Safety Control Systems;
     Survey on the use of Codex Standards;
     Relevant languages of the Codex Alimentarius Commission 
in the work of CCEUROPE; and
     Funding translation and interpretation services into 
Russian for the effective operation of CCEUROPE.
    Responsible Agency: USDA/FSIS/USCO.
    U.S. Participation: Yes (as observer).

Coordinating Committee for Latin America and the Caribbean

    The Coordinating Committee for Latin America and the Caribbean 
(CCLAC) will convene its 21st in 2019.
    The Committee will continue to work on the following items:
     Monitoring of the Strategic Plan for CCLAC;
     Critical and Emerging Issues and prioritization of 
CCLAC issues within the framework of Codex;
     Comments on the Food Safety Control Systems Platform;
     Cross-cutting topics for the region, proposed draft 
standards and seeking regional support; and
     Proposal for the Development of a Standard for Yams.
    Responsible Agency: USDA/FSIS/USCO.
    U.S. Participation: Yes (as observer).

Coordinating Committee for the Near East

    The Coordinating Committee for the Near East (CCNEA) will 
convene its 10th Session in 2019.
    Responsible Agency: USDA/FSIS/USCO.
    U.S. Participation: No.

Coordinating Committee for North America and the South West Pacific 
(CCNASWP)

    The Committee (CCNASWP) will convene its 15th Session in 2019.
    The Committee will continue to work on the following items:
     New work on the development of a Regional Standard for 
Kava as a beverage when mixed with cold water;
     Recommendation that Vanuatu be re-appointed as 
Coordinator for North America and the South West Pacific;
     Proposed draft Regional Standard for Fermented Noni-
Juice; and
     Development of on-line platform for information on 
sharing food quality and safety systems.
    Responsible Agency: USDA/FSIS/USCO.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.
    Contact: U.S. Codex Office, United States Department of 
Agriculture, Room 4861, South Agriculture Building, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-3700, Phone: (202) 205-
7760, Fax: (202) 720-3157, Email: [email protected].

Attachment 2

U.S. Codex Alimentarius Officials

Codex Chairpersons From the United States

Codex Committee on Food Hygiene

Emilio Esteban, DVM, MBA, MPVM, Ph.D., Executive Associate for 
Laboratory Services, Office of Public Health Science, Food Safety 
and Inspection Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 950 College 
Station Road, Athens, GA 30605, Phone:

[[Page 39048]]

(706) 546-3429, Fax: (706) 546-3428, Email: 
[email protected].

Codex Committee on Processed Fruits and Vegetables

Richard Boyd, Chief, Contract Services Branch, Specialty Crops 
Inspection Division, Specialty Crops Program, Agricultural Marketing 
Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 1400 Independence Avenue 
SW, Mail Stop 0247, Room 0726--South Building, Washington, DC 20250, 
Phone: (202) 690-1201, Fax: (202) 690-1527, Email: 
[email protected].

Codex Committee on Residues of Veterinary Drugs in Foods

Kevin Greenlees, Ph.D., DABT, Senior Advisor for Science and Policy, 
Office of New Animal Drug Evaluation, HFV-100, Center for Veterinary 
Medicine, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 7500 Standish Place, 
Rockville, MD 20855, Phone: (240) 402-0638, Fax: (240) 276-9538, 
[email protected].

U.S. Delegates and Alternate Delegates

Worldwide General Codex Subject Committees

Contaminants in Foods

(Host Government--The Netherlands)

U.S. Delegate

Dr. Lauren Posnick Robin, Branch Chief, Plant Products Branch, 
Division of Plant Products and Beverages, Office of Food Safety 
(HFS-317), Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, U.S. Food 
and Drug Administration, 5001 Campus Drive, College Park, MD 20740, 
Phone: +1 (240) 402-1639, [email protected].

Alternate Delegate

Dr. Terry Dutko, Ph.D., Laboratory Director, Food Safety and 
Inspection Service, Office of Public Health Science, U.S. Department 
of Agriculture, 4300 Goodfellow Building, 105D Federal, St. Louis, 
MO 63120-0005, Phone: +1 (314) 263-2680, Extension 344, 
[email protected].

Food Additives

(Host Government--China)

U.S. Delegate

Paul S. Honigfort, Ph.D., Consumer Safety Officer, Division of Food 
Contact Notifications (HFS-275), Office of Food Additive Safety, 
U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 5001 Campus Drive, College Park, 
MD 20740, Phone: +1 (240) 402-1206, Fax: +1 (301) 436-2965, 
[email protected].

Alternate Delegate

Daniel Folmer, Ph.D., Chemist, Center for Food Safety and Applied 
Nutrition, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 5001 Campus Drive, 
Room 3017 HFS-265, College Park, MD 20740, Phone: +1 (240) 402-1274, 
[email protected].

Food Hygiene

(Host Government--United States)

U.S. Delegate

Jenny Scott, Senior Advisor, Office of Food Safety, Center for Food 
Safety and Applied Nutrition, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 
5001 Campus Drive, HFS-300, Room 3B-014, College Park, MD 20740-
3835, Phone: +1 (240) 402-2166, Fax: +1 (301) 436-2632, 
[email protected].

Alternate Delegates

William Shaw, Director, Risk, Innovation and Management Staff, Food 
Safety and Inspection Service, 355 E Street SW, Room 8-142, Patriots 
Plaza III, Washington, DC 20024, Phone: +1 (301) 504-0852, 
[email protected].
Andrew Chi Yuen Yeung, Ph.D., Branch Chief, Egg and Meat Products 
Branch, Division of Dairy, Egg and Meat Products, Office of Food 
Safety, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, U.S. Food and 
Drug Administration, 5001 Campus Drive, College Park, MD 20740, 
Phone: +1 (240) 402-1541, Fax: +1 (301) 436-2632, 
[email protected].

Food Import and Export Certification and Inspection Systems

(Host Government--Australia)

U.S. Delegate

Mary Stanley, Senior Advisor, Office of International Coordination, 
Food Safety and Inspection Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 
1400 Independence Avenue SW, Room 3151, Washington, DC 20250, Phone: 
+1 (202) 720-0287, Fax: +1 (202) 690-3856, 
[email protected].

Alternate Delegate

Caroline Smith DeWaal, International Food Safety Policy Manager, 
Office of the Center Director, Center for Food Safety and Applied 
Nutrition, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 5001 Campus Drive, 
Room 4A011, College Park, MD 20740-3835, Phone: +1 (240) 402-1242, 
[email protected].

Food Labelling

(Host Government--Canada)

U.S. Delegate

Douglas Balentine, Director, Office of Nutrition and Food Labelling, 
Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, U.S. Food and Drug 
Administration, 5001 Campus Drive (HFS-830), College Park, MD 20740, 
+1 240 402 2373, Fax: +1 (301) 436-2636, 
[email protected].

Alternate Delegate

Jeffrey Canavan, Deputy Director, Labeling and Program Delivery 
Staff, Food Safety and Inspection Service, U.S. Department of 
Agriculture, 1400 Independence Avenue SW--Mail Stop 5273, Patriots 
Plaza III, 8th Floor-161A, Washington, DC 20250, Phone: +1 (301) 
504-0860, Fax: +1 (202) 245-4792, [email protected].

General Principles

(Host Government--France)

    Delegate Note: A member of the Steering Committee heads the 
delegation to meetings of the General Principles Committee.

Methods of Analysis and Sampling

(Host Government--Hungary)

U.S. Delegate

Gregory Noonan, Director, Division of Bioanalytical Chemistry, 
Division of Analytical Chemistry, Center for Food Safety and Applied 
Nutrition, Food and Drug Administration, 5001 Campus Drive, College 
Park, MD 20740, Phone: +1 (240) 402-2250, Fax: +1 (301) 436-2332, 
[email protected].

Alternate Delegate

Dr. Timothy Norden, Technology and Science Division, Federal Grain 
Inspection Program, Agricultural Marketing Service, U.S. Department 
of Agriculture, 10383 N Ambassador Drive, Kansas City, MO 64153, 
Phone: +1 (816) 891-0470, Fax: +1 (816) 872-1253, 
[email protected].

Nutrition and Foods for Special Dietary Uses

(Host Government--Germany)

U.S. Delegate

Douglas Balentine, Director, Office of Nutrition and Food Labelling, 
Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, U.S. Food and Drug 
Administration, 5001 Campus Drive (HFS-830), College Park, MD 20740, 
+1 240 402 2373, Fax: +1 (301) 436-2636, 
[email protected].

Alternate Delegate

Pamela R. Pehrsson, Ph.D., Research Leader, U.S. Department of 
Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Nutrient Data 
Laboratory, Room 105, Building 005, BARC-West, 10300 Baltimore 
Avenue, Beltsville, MD 20705, 301.504.0630 (voice), 301.504.0632 
(fax), [email protected].

Pesticide Residues

(Host Government--China)

U.S. Delegate

Captain David Miller, Chief, Chemistry and Exposure Branch, and 
acting Chief, Toxicology and Epidemiology Branch, Health Effects 
Division, William Jefferson Clinton Building, 1200 Pennsylvania 
Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20460, Phone: +1 (703) 305-5352, Fax: +1 
(703) 305-5147, [email protected].

Alternate Delegate

Dr. John Johnston, Scientific Liaison/Chemist, Food Safety and 
Inspection Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 2150 Centre 
Avenue, Building D, Suite 320, Fort Collins, CO 80526, Phone: (202) 
365-7175, [email protected].

Residues of Veterinary Drugs in Foods

(Host Government--United States)

U.S. Delegate

Ms. Brandi Robinson, MPH, CPH, ONADE International Coordinator, 
Center for Veterinary Medicine, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 
7500 Standish Place (HFV-100), Rockville, MD 20855, Phone: +1 (240) 
402-0645, [email protected].

Alternate Delegate

Vacant

[[Page 39049]]

Worldwide Commodity Codex Committees (Active)

Cereals, Pulses and Legumes

(Host Government--United States)

U.S. Delegate

Dr. Henry Kim, Senior Policy Analyst, Office of Food Safety, Center 
for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, U.S. Food and Drug 
Administration, 5001 Campus Drive (HFS-317), College Park, MD, USA 
20740-3835, Phone: +1 (240) 402-2023, [email protected].

Alternate Delegate

Mr. Patrick McCluskey, Supervisory Agricultural Marketing 
Specialist, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing 
Service, Federal Grain Inspection Service, 10383 N Ambassador Drive, 
Kansas City, MO 64153, Phone: +1 (816) 659-8403, 
[email protected].

Fats and Oils

(Host Government--Malaysia)

U.S. Delegate

Dr. Paul South, Director, Division of Plant Products and Beverages, 
Office of Food Safety (HFS-317), Center for Food Safety and Applied 
Nutrition, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 5001 Campus Drive, 
College Park, MD 20740-3835, Phone: +1 (240) 402-1640, Fax: +1 (301) 
436-2632, [email protected].

Alternate Delegate

Robert A. Moreau, Ph.D., Research Leader, Eastern Regional Research 
Center, Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Department of 
Agriculture, 600 East Mermaid Lane, Wyndmoor, PA 19038, Phone: +1 
(215) 233-6428, Fax: +1 (215) 233-6406, [email protected].

Fresh Fruits and Vegetables

(Host Government--Mexico)

U.S. Delegate

Dorian LaFond, International Standards Coordinator, Fruit and 
Vegetables Program, Specialty Crop Inspection Division, Agricultural 
Marketing Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW--Mail Stop 0247, Washington, DC 20250-0247, Phone: +1 
(202) 690-4944, Fax: +1 (202) 690-1527, [email protected].

Alternate Delegate

David T. Ingram, Ph.D., Consumer Safety Officer, Office of Food 
Safety, Fresh Produce Branch, Division of Produce Safety, Center for 
Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, U.S. Food and Drug 
Administration, 5001 Campus Drive, Room 3E027, College Park, MD 
20740-3835, Phone: +1 (240) 402-0335, [email protected].

Processed Fruits and Vegetables

(Host Government--United States)

U.S. Delegate

Dorian LaFond, International Standards Coordinator, Fruit and 
Vegetables Program, Specialty Crop Inspection Division, Agricultural 
Marketing Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW--Mail Stop 0247, Washington, DC 20250-0247, Phone: +1 
(202) 690-4944, Fax: +1 (202) 690-1527, [email protected].

Alternate Delegate

Dr. Yinqing Ma, Branch Chief, Beverages Branch, Division of Plant 
Products and Beverages, Office of Food Safety (HFS-317), Center for 
Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, U.S. Food and Drug 
Administration, 5001 Campus Drive, College Park, MD 20740, Phone: +1 
(240) 402-2479, Fax: +1 (301) 436-2632, [email protected].

Spices and Culinary Herbs

(Host Government--India)

U.S. Delegate

Dorian LaFond, International Standards Coordinator, Fruit and 
Vegetables Program, Specialty Crop Inspection Division, Agricultural 
Marketing Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW--Mail Stop 0247, Washington, DC 20250-0247, Phone: +1 
(202) 690-4944, Fax: +1 (202) 690-1527, [email protected].

Alternate Delegate

Dr. Aparna Tatavarthy, Microbiologist, Spices and Seasoning Mixes 
Team, Division of Plant Products and Beverages, Office of Food 
Safety (HFS-317), Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, U.S. 
Food and Drug Administration, 5001 Campus Drive, College Park, MD 
20740, Phone: +1 (240) 402-1013, Fax: +1 (301) 436-2632, 
[email protected].

Sugars

(Host Government--United Kingdom)

U.S. Delegate

Dr. Chia-Pei Charlotte Liang, Chemist, Office of Food Safety, Center 
for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, U.S. Food and Drug 
Administration, 5001 Campus Drive, College Park, MD 20740, Phone: +1 
(240) 402-2785, [email protected].

Worldwide Ad Hoc Codex Task Forces (Active)

Antimicrobial Resistance (Reactivated 2016)

(Host Government--Republic of Korea)

U.S. Delegate

Donald A. Prater, DVM, Assistant Commissioner for Food Safety 
Integration, Office of Foods and Veterinary Medicine, Food and Drug 
Administration, 10903 New Hampshire Avenue, Silver Spring, MD 20993, 
Phone: +1-301-348-3007, [email protected].

Alternate Delegate

Neena Anandaraman, DVM, MPH, Veterinary Science Policy Advisor, 
Office of Chief Scientist, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Jamie L. 
Whitten Building, Room 339A, 1200 Independence Avenue SW, 
Washington, DC 20024, Phone: +1 (202) 260-8789, 
[email protected].

Worldwide Commodity Codex Committees (Adjourned)

Cocoa Products and Chocolate (adjourned sine die 2001)

(Host Government--Switzerland)

U.S. Delegate

Michelle Smith, Ph.D., Senior Policy Analyst, Office of Food Safety, 
Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, U.S. Food and Drug 
Administration (HFS-317), Harvey W. Wiley Federal Building, 5001 
Campus Drive, College Park, MD 20740-3835, Phone: +1 (240) 402-2024, 
Fax: +1 (301) 436-2632, [email protected].

Fish and Fishery Products (adjourned sine die 2016)

(Host Government--Norway)

U.S. Delegate

Dr. William R. Jones, Deputy Director, Office of Food Safety (HFS-
300), U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 5001 Campus Drive, College 
Park, MD 20740, Phone: +1 (240) 402-2300, Fax: +1 (301) 436-2601, 
[email protected].

Alternate Delegate

Steven Wilson, Deputy Director, Office of International Affairs and 
Seafood Inspection, National Marine Fisheries Service, NOAA, U.S. 
Department of Commerce, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, 
Maryland 20910, Phone: +1 (301) 427-8312 [email protected].

Meat Hygiene (adjourned sine die 2003)

(Host Government--New Zealand)

U.S. Delegate

Vacant

Milk and Milk Products (adjourned sine die 2017)

(Host Government--New Zealand)

U.S. Delegate

Christopher Thompson, Dairy Standardization Branch, Mail Stop 0230, 
Room 2756, Agricultural Marketing Service, U.S. Department of 
Agriculture, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250, 
Phone: +1 (202) 720-9382, Fax: +1 (844) 804-4701, 
[email protected].

Alternate Delegate

John F. Sheehan, Director, Division of Dairy, Egg and Meat Product 
Safety, Office of Food Safety, Center for Food Safety and Applied 
Nutrition, U.S. Food and Drug Administration (HFS-315), Harvey W. 
Wiley Federal Building, 5001 Campus Drive, College Park, MD 20740, 
Phone: +1 (240) 402-1488, Fax: +1 (301) 436-2632, 
[email protected].

Natural Mineral Waters (adjourned sine die 2008)

(Host Government--Switzerland)

U.S. Delegate

Dr. Yinqing Ma, Branch Chief, Beverages Branch, Division of Plant 
Products and Beverages, Office of Food Safety (HFS-317), Center for 
Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, U.S. Food and Drug

[[Page 39050]]

Administration, 5001 Campus Drive, College Park, MD 20740, Phone: +1 
(240) 402-2479, Fax: +1 (301) 436-2632, [email protected].

Vegetable Proteins (adjourned sine die 1989)

(Host Government--Canada)

U.S. Delegate

Vacant

Ad Hoc Intergovernmental Task Forces (Dissolved)

Animal Feeding (Dissolved 2013)

(Host government--Switzerland)

U.S. Delegate

Vacant

[FR Doc. 2018-16944 Filed 8-7-18; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 3410-DM-P