[Federal Register Volume 87, Number 125 (Thursday, June 30, 2022)]
[Notices]
[Pages 39044-39052]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2022-14018]
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Notices
Federal Register
________________________________________________________________________
This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains documents other than rules
or proposed rules that are applicable to the public. Notices of hearings
and investigations, committee meetings, agency decisions and rulings,
delegations of authority, filing of petitions and applications and agency
statements of organization and functions are examples of documents
appearing in this section.
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Federal Register / Vol. 87, No. 125 / Thursday, June 30, 2022 /
Notices
[[Page 39044]]
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
U.S. Codex Office
[Docket No. USDA-2022-XXXX]
International Standard-Setting Activities
AGENCY: Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs (TFAA), USDA.
ACTION: Notice.
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SUMMARY: This notice informs the public of the sanitary and
phytosanitary (SPS) standard-setting activities of the Codex
Alimentarius (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 21, 2021 to May 31, 2022
and June 1, 2022 to May 31, 2023, seeks comments on standards under
consideration and recommendations for new standards.
ADDRESSES: The U.S. Codex Office (USCO) 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: Send to Docket Clerk, U.S. Department of
Agriculture, Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, 1400 Independence
Avenue SW, Mailstop S4861, Washington, DC 20250-3700.
Hand- or courier-delivered submittals: Deliver to 1400
Independence Avenue SW, Room 4861, Washington, DC 20250-3700.
Instructions: All items submitted by mail or email are to include
the Agency name and docket number USDA-2022-XXXX. 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. 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 for
that committee.
Docket: For access to background documents or comments received,
call (202) 205-7760 to schedule an appointment.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ms. Mary Frances Lowe, United States
Manager for Codex Alimentarius, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office
of the Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, U.S.
Codex Office, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Room 4861, Washington, DC
20250-3700; Telephone: +1 (202) 205-7760; Email: [email protected].
For information pertaining to committees, contact the delegate for
that committee. A complete list of U.S. delegates and alternate
delegates is accessible via the internet at: https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/us-codex-program-officials.pdf. Documents
pertaining to Codex and specific committee agendas are accessible via
the internet at http://www.fao.org/fao-who-codexalimentarius/meetings/en/. The U.S. Codex Office (USCO) also maintains a website at http://www.usda.gov/codex, a link that also offers an email subscription
service providing access to information related to Codex. Customers can
add or delete their subscription themselves and have the option to
password protect their accounts.
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 Act 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 the Codex Alimentarius
(Codex), the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE), and the
International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC). 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 Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs
Mission Area the responsibility to inform the public of the SPS
standard-setting activities of Codex. The Trade and Foreign
Agricultural Affairs Mission Area 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
[[Page 39045]]
managed and carried out by the United States Department of Agriculture
(USDA); the Food and Drug 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 USCO 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 U.S. 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 U.S. 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 USCO makes much of the same information
available through its web page at http://www.usda.gov/codex. 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, 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 21, 2021 to May 31, 2022 and June 1, 2022 to May 31,
2023. A list of forthcoming Codex sessions may be found at: http://www.codexalimentarius.org/meetings-reports/en/.
Additional Public Notification
Public awareness of all segments of rulemaking and policy
development is important. Consequently, the USCO will announce this
Federal Register publication on-line through the U.S. Codex web page
located at: https://www.federalregister.gov/agencies/us-codex-office.
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 (Commission or CAC) convened its
44th Session (CAC44) virtually from November 8-15 and 17-18, 2021, with
report adoption taking place on December 14, 2021. The relevant
document is REP21/CAC. The actions taken by the Commission at CAC44
(e.g., adoption, revocation, approval of new work, discontinuation of
work, amendments, etc.) are described below under the respective Codex
Committees/Task Force.
The Commission is scheduled to convene for its 45th Session (CAC45)
on November 21-25, 2022, with report adoption taking place on December
13, 2022. At its 45th Session, the Commission will consider adopting
standards recommended by committees at Step 8 or \5/8\ (final adoption)
and advance the work of committees by adopting draft standards at Step
5 (for further comment and consideration by the relevant committee).
The Commission will also consider revocation of Codex texts; proposals
for new work; discontinuation of work; amendments to Codex standards
and related texts; and matters arising from the Reports of the
Commission, the Executive Committee, and subsidiary bodies. Although
the agenda for the 45th Session is not yet available, it is expected
that the Commission will also consider Codex budgetary and financial
matters; FAO/WHO scientific support to Codex (activities, budgetary and
financial matters); matters arising from FAO/WHO; reports of side
events; election of the chairperson and vice-chairpersons and members
of the Executive Committee elected on a geographical basis; designation
of countries responsible for appointing the chairpersons of Codex
subsidiary bodies; any other business; and adoption of the report.
The Executive Committee (CCEXEC) convened its 81st Session
(CCEXEC81) virtually from October 28 to November 5, 2021. The relevant
document is REP21/EXEC2. In addition to making recommendations to CAC44
on the work of Codex Committees/Task Forces, CCEXEC81 discussed the
impact of the pandemic on the activities of Codex Alimentarius; the
Codex Strategic Plan 2020-2025; and the application of the Statements
of Principle concerning the Role of Science in the Codex decision-
making process and the extent to which other factors are taken into
account.
Before the CAC45, CCEXEC is scheduled to convene twice virtually,
due to COVID-19 related issues. The 82nd Session of CCEXEC is scheduled
to convene June 20-30, 2022 and its 83rd Session is scheduled to
convene November 14-18, 2022. CCEXEC is composed of the Commission
chairperson; vice-chairpersons; 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
coordinating committees. The United States will participate as an
advisor to Canada, the member elected on a geographical basis for North
America.
At its 82nd Session, the Executive Committee will report on the
work of the sub-committee on the application of the Statements of
Principle concerning the role of science, and the sub-committee on new
food sources and production systems. The Executive Committee will also
consider the following agenda items: model for future Codex work,
applications from international non-governmental organizations for
observer status in Codex, review of international non-governmental
organizations with observer status in Codex, Codex Strategic Plan 2020-
2025, and the 60th anniversary of the Codex Alimentarius Commission:
1963-2023. The Executive
[[Page 39046]]
Committee agenda for the 83rd Session is not yet available.
Responsible Agency: USDA/TFAA/USCO.
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)or 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
standards or codes of practice 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 had the following items which were considered by the
44th Session of the Codex Alimentarius Commission in November 2021.
Adopted at Step 8 or Step \5/8\ (final adoption):
MLs for cadmium in chocolates containing or declaring <30%
cocoa solid on a dry matter basis
MLs for cadmium in chocolates containing or declaring
>=30% to <50% total cocoa solid on a dry matter basis
Revision of the Code of Practice for the Prevention and
Reduction of Lead Contamination in Foods (CXS 56-2004)
Amendment to extend the MLs for lead in fruit juices and
grape juice in the General Standard for Contaminants in Food and Feed
(CXS 193-1995) to cover infants and young children
Approved as new work:
MLs for methylmercury in orange roughy and pink cusk eel
Code of Practice for the prevention and reduction of
mycotoxin contamination in cassava and cassava-based products
The Committee convened its 15th Session virtually from May 9-13,
2022, with report adoption taking place on May 24, 2022. The relevant
document is REP22/CF.
The Committee has the following items that will be considered by
the 45th Session of the Commission.
To be considered for final adoption at Step 8 and Step 5/8:
MLs for cadmium in cocoa powder (100% total cocoa solids
on a dry matter basis)
Code of practice for the prevention and reduction of
cadmium contamination in cocoa beans
MLs for methylmercury in certain fish species and
associated sampling plan (orange roughy and pink cusk eel) MLs for lead
in certain food categories (cereal-based products for infants and young
children, white sugar, corn and maple syrups, honey, and sugar-based
candies)
MLs for total aflatoxins in maize grain, destined for
further processing; flour meal, semolina and flakes derived from maize;
husked rice; polished rice; sorghum grain, destined for further
processing; cereal-based food for infants and young children (excluding
foods for food aid programs); and cereal-based food for older infants
and young children for food aid programs
The 16th Session of the CCCF (CCCF16) is scheduled to convene April
17-21, 2023. The CCCF16 agenda is currently unavailable, and we are
unable to determine if CCCF16 will recommend adoptions or approvals at
the 46th Session of The Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC46).
The Committee is expected to continue working on:
MLs for lead in remaining certain food categories (ready-
to-eat meals for infants and young children, culinary herbs, dried
spices, brown and raw sugars)
Sampling plans for methylmercury in certain fish species
and associated sampling plan (orange roughy and pink cusk eel)
MLs for total aflatoxins in ready-to-eat peanuts and
associated sampling plan
MLs for total aflatoxins and ochratoxin A in nutmeg, dried
chili and paprika, ginger, pepper, and turmeric and associated sampling
plans
Code of practice for prevention and reduction of mycotoxin
contamination in cassava and cassava-based products
Forward work plan for CCCF, including:
[cir] Review of staple food-contaminant combinations for future
work of CCCF
Review of Codex standards for contaminants
Follow-up work to the outcomes of JECFA evaluations
Priority list of contaminants for evaluation by JECFA
Responsible Agencies: HHS/FDA; USDA/Food Safety and Inspection
Service (FSIS).
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 27th Session of the CCFO met virtually on October 18-22, 2021,
with report adoption taking place on October 26, 2021. The relevant
document is REP22/FO.
The Committee has the following items that will be considered by
the 45th Session of the Commission.
To be considered for final adoption at Step 5/8:
Proposed draft revision to the Standard for Named
Vegetable Oils (CXS 210-1999): Essential composition of Sunflower seed
oils
To be considered for approval as new work:
Amendment/revision to the Standard for Named Vegetable
Oils (CXS 210-1999) to include Camellia seed oil; Sacha inchi oil; High
oleic acid soya bean oil
Amendment/revision to the Standard for Fish Oils (CXS 329-
2017) to include Calanus oil
The Committee is expected to continue working on:
Proposed draft revision to the Standard for Named
Vegetable Oils (CXS 210-1999): avocado oil
Editorial amendments/changes to the Code of Practice for
the Storage and Transport of Edible Fats and Oils in Bulk (CXC 36-
1987): Appendix 2
Mechanisms for revising the Standard for Milk Fat Products
(CXS 280-1973)
Responsible Agencies: HHS/FDA/Center for Food Safety and Applied
Nutrition (CFSAN); USDA/Agricultural Research Service (ARS).
U.S. Participation: Yes.
Codex Committee on Fish and Fishery Products
The Committee on Fish and Fishery Products (CCFFP) is responsible
for elaborating standards for fresh, frozen, and otherwise processed
fish, crustaceans, and mollusks. The 35th session of CCFFP is working
by correspondence and the Committee is expected to complete their work
by October 1, 2022.
The Committee is working by correspondence on:
The Standard for Canned Sardines and Sardine-Type Products
(CXS 94-1981) to consider inclusion of the fish species S. lemuru (Bali
Sardinella) in the list of Sardinella species under section 2.1.
Responsible Agencies: HHS/FDA; DOC/NOAA/National Marine Fisheries
Service (NMFS).
U.S. Participation: Yes.
[[Page 39047]]
Codex Committee on Food Additives
The Codex Committee on Food Additives (CCFA) establishes or
endorses acceptable MLs for individual food additives; prepares a
priority list of food additives for risk assessment by the 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 Committee convened its 52nd Session virtually from September 1-
7, 2021, with report adoption taking place on September 10, 2021. The
relevant document is REP21/FA.
The Committee had the following items which were considered by the
44th Session of the Codex Alimentarius Commission in November 2021.
Adopted at Step 8 (final adoption):
Specifications for the Identity and Purity of Food Additives
Revisions to adopted provisions of the General Standard for
Food Additives (GSFA) (CXS 192-1995)
Revision of the Class Names and the International Numbering
System for Food Additives (CXG 36-1989)
Changes related to the group header STEVIOL GLYCOSIDES in the
GSFA (CXS 192-1995)
Revised provisions of the GSFA in relation to the amendments
to title and food category number for CXS 283-1978 in Annex C of the
GSFA (CXS 192-1995)
Revised food-additive provisions of the GSFA in relation to
the partial alignment of CXS 249-2006, CXS 273-1968, CXS 275-1973 and
CXS 288-1978 to include tamarind seed polysaccharide (INS 437)
Revised food-additive provisions of the GSFA in relation to
the linked entry for Food Category (FC) 12.5 in the References to
Commodity Standards for GSFA Table 3 Additives in the Annex to Table 3
Revised provisions of the GSFA for sweeteners in different
food categories (CXS 192-1995)
Revised food-additive sections of nine standards for milk and
milk products, i.e., Group Standards for Cheeses in Brine (CXS 208-
1999); Unripened Cheese including Fresh Cheese (CXS 221-2001);
Standards for a Blend of Evaporated Skimmed Milk and Vegetable Fat (CXS
250-2006); a Blend of Skimmed Milk and Vegetable Fat in Powdered Form
(CXS 251-2006); a Blend of Sweetened Condensed Skimmed Milk and
Vegetable Fat (CXS 252-2006); Standards for Cottage Cheese (CXS 273-
1968); Cream Cheese (CXS 275-1973); Extra Hard Grating Cheese (CXS 278-
1978); and General Standard for Cheese (CXS 283-1978)
Revised food-additive sections of six standards for fats and
oils, i.e., Standards for Edible Fats and Oils not covered by
Individual Standards (CXS 19-1981); Olive Oils and Olive Pomace Oils
(CXS 33-1981); Named vegetable oils (CXS 210-1999); Named Animal Fats
(CXS 211-1999); Fat Spreads and Blended Spreads (CXS 256-2007); and
Fish Oils (CXS 329-2017)
Revised food-additive sections of three standards for spices
and culinary herbs, i.e., Standards for Black, White and Green Peppers
(CXS 326-2017); Cumin (CXS 327-2017); and Dried Thyme (CXS 328-2017)
Amendments to Standards for Bouillons and Consomm[eacute]s
(CXS 117-1981) and Wheat Flour (CXS 152-1985) due to alignment of
methylate copolymer, basic (INS 1205)
Inclusion of xanthan gum (INS 415) and pectins (INS 440) in FC
13.1.3 (``Formulae for special medical purposes for infants'') of the
GSFA (CXS 192-1995)
The 53rd Session of the CCFA (CCFA53) is scheduled to convene March
27-31, 2023. The CCFA53 agenda is currently unavailable, and we are
unable to determine if CCFA53 will recommend adoptions or approvals at
CAC46.
The Committee is expected to continue working on:
New proposed draft food additive provisions of the GSFA
Technological justification for the use of mono and
diglycerides of fatty acids (INS 471) as an antifoaming agent in
products for deep frying conforming to the Standard for Named Vegetable
Oils (CXS 210-1999) excluding virgin and cold-pressed oils
Guideline on avoiding future divergence of food additive
provisions in the GSFA with commodity standards
Priority list of substances proposed for evaluation by JECFA
Discussion paper on the food additive provision for the use of
trisodium citrate in FC 01.1.1 ``Fluid milk (plain)''
An administrative review of all adopted food additives
provisions in the GSFA for additives with sweetener function but not
associated with Note 161
Discussion paper on mapping Food Categories of the GSFA to the
FoodEx2 database
Discussion paper on the use of certain food additives in wine
production
Responsible Agency: HHS/FDA/CFSAN.
U.S. Participation: Yes.
Codex Committee on Food Hygiene
The Codex Committee on Food Hygiene (CCFH) is responsible for
developing basic provisions on food hygiene, applicable to all food;
considering and amending or endorsing provisions on food hygiene
contained in Codex commodity standards and Codex codes of practice
developed by other committees; considering specific food hygiene
problems assigned to it by the Commission; suggesting and prioritizing
areas where there is a need for microbiological risk assessment at the
international level and developing questions to be addressed by the
risk assessors; and considering microbiological risk management matters
in relation to food hygiene and in relation to the FAO/WHO risk
assessments.
The 52nd Session of the Committee (CCFH52) met virtually from
February 28-March 4, 2022, with report adoption taking place on March
9, 2022. The relevant document is REP 22/FH.
The Committee has the following items that will be considered at
the 45th Session of the Commission.
To be considered for final adoption at Step 8 and Step 5/8:
Draft Guidelines for the Management of Biological Foodborne
Outbreaks
Proposed draft Decision Tree as an annex to the General
Principles of Food Hygiene (CXC 1-1969)
The 53rd Session of the CCFH (CCFH53) is scheduled to convene from
November 27-December 3, 2022. The CCFH53 agenda is currently
unavailable, and we are unable to determine if CCFH53 will recommend
adoptions or approvals at CAC46.
The Committee is expected to continue working on:
Proposed Draft Guidelines for the Control of Shiga Toxin-
Producing Escherichia coli (STEC) in Raw Beef, Raw Milk and Raw Milk
Cheeses, Fresh Leafy Vegetables, and Sprouts
Proposed Draft Guidelines for the Safe Use and Reuse of Water
in Food Production
Discussion paper on revision of the Guidelines on the
Application of General Principles of Food Hygiene to the Control of
Pathogenic Vibrio Species in Seafood (CXG 73-2010)
Discussion paper on revision of the Guidelines on the
Application of
[[Page 39048]]
General Principles of Food Hygiene to the Control of Viruses in Food
(CXG 79-2012)
New work proposals/forward workplan
Responsible Agencies: HHS/FDA/CFSAN; 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 Committee had the following items which were considered by the
44th Session of the Codex Alimentarius Commission in November 2021.
Adopted at Step 8 or Step 5/8 (final adoption):
Principles and Guidelines for the Assessment and Use of
Voluntary Third-Party Assurance (vTPA) Programmes.
Guidance on Paperless Use of Electronic Certificates
(Revised Guidelines for Design, Production, Issuance and Use of Generic
Official Certificates (CXG 38-2001)).
Approved as new work:
Development of guidance on the prevention and control of food
fraud
The 26th Session of the CCFICS is scheduled to convene from May 1-
5, 2023. The CCFICS26 agenda is currently unavailable, and we are
unable to determine if CCFICS26 will recommend adoptions or approvals
at CAC46.
The Committee is expected to continue working on:
Development of guidance on the prevention and control of food
fraud
Proposed draft guidelines on recognition and maintenance of
equivalence of National Food Control Systems (NFCS)
Proposed draft consolidated Codex guidelines related to
equivalence
Review and update the list of emerging global issues
Discussion paper on ``Use of remote audit and verification in
regulatory frameworks''
Discussion paper on review and update of the Principles for
Traceability/Product Tracing as a Tool Within a Food Inspection and
Certification System (CXG 60-2006)
Responsible Agencies: USDA/FSIS; HHS/FDA/CFSAN.
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, and guidelines; and studies
specific labeling problems assigned to it 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 46th Session of the Committee (CCFL46) met virtually from
September 27-October 1, 2021, with report adoption taking place on
October 7, 2021. The relevant document is REP 21/FL.
The Committee had the following items which were considered by the
44th Session of the Codex Alimentarius Commission in November 2021.
Adopted at Step 8 or Step 5/8 (final adoption):
Draft General Standard for the Labelling of Non-Retail
Containers (CXS 346-2021)
Proposed Draft Guidelines on Front of Pack Nutrition Labelling
(Annex 2 to the Codex Guidelines on Nutrition Labelling (CXG 2-1985))
Approved as new work:
Discussion paper on guidance on innovation--use of technology
in food labeling
The 47th Session of the CCFL (CCFL47) is scheduled to convene from
May 15-19, 2023. The CCFL47 agenda is currently unavailable, and we are
unable to determine if CCFL47 will recommend adoptions or approvals at
CAC46.
The Committee is expected to continue working on:
Proposed draft Guidelines on Internet Sales/E-Commerce
Proposed draft revision to the Codex General Standard for the
Labelling of Prepackaged Foods (CXS 1-1985): Provisions relevant to
allergen labeling and proposed draft guidance on precautionary allergen
labeling
Discussion paper on guidance on innovation--use of technology
in food labeling
Responsible Agencies: HHS/FDA/CFSAN; 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 Committee convened its 22nd Session virtually from April 25-29,
2022, with report adoption taking place on May 4, 2022. The relevant
document is REP22/FFV.
The Committee has the following items that will be considered by
the 45th Session of the Commission.
To be considered for final adoption at Step 5/8:
Proposed draft standard for onions and shallots
Proposed draft standard for berry fruits
Proposed draft standard for fresh dates
To be considered for approval as new work:
New standard for Castillo lulo
New standard for fresh curry leaves
Amendment to existing standard for bananas
In addition, the Committee agreed to the following item for
internal use by the Committee:
Glossary of terms used in the layout for Codex standards for
fresh fruits and vegetables
The Committee is expected to continue working on:
New work proposals
[[Page 39049]]
Responsible Agencies: USDA/Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS),
HHS/FDA/CFSAN.
U.S. Participation: Yes.
Codex Committee on General Principles
The Codex Committee on General Principles (CCGP) is responsible for
procedural and general matters referred to it by the Codex Alimentarius
Commission, including: (a) The review or endorsement of procedural
provisions/texts forwarded by other subsidiary bodies for inclusion in
the Procedural Manual of the Codex Alimentarius Commission; and (b) The
consideration and recommendation of other amendments to the Procedural
Manual.
The Committee had the following item which was adopted by the 44th
Session of the Codex Alimentarius Commission in November 2021.
Criteria and Procedural Guidelines for Codex Committees
and ad hoc Intergovernmental Task Forces Working by Correspondence.
The 33rd Session of the CCGP (CCGP33) is scheduled for October 2-6,
2023, in Bordeaux, France. The Committee is expected to continue
discussions on:
Revisions/amendments to Codex texts
Format and structure of the Codex Procedural Manual
Responsible Agencies: A member of the Steering Committee heads the
delegation to meetings of the General Principles Committee.
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 those 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 Committee had the following items which were considered by the
44th Session of the Codex Alimentarius Commission in November 2021.
Adopted at Step 8 (final adoption):
Revised Guidelines on Measurement Uncertainty (CXG 54-2004)
Revoked:
Methods of analysis/performance criteria for certain
provisions in Recommended Methods of Analysis and Sampling (CXS 234-
1999) as listed in REP21/MAS Appendix II, Part 2
In addition, the Commission adopted:
Methods of analysis and performance criteria amending certain
provisions in Recommended Methods of Analysis and Sampling (CXS 234-
1999)
Editorial amendment to the provision in Section 3.3 of the
Standard for Edible Casein Products (CXS 290-1995)
Methods of analysis for provisions for fats and oils (part 4.3
of REP21/MAS), which had been considered and agreed by the 27th Session
of Codex Committee on Fats and Oils (CCFO27).
The 42nd Session of the CCMAS (CCMAS42) is scheduled to convene
June 12-16, 2023. The CCMAS42 agenda is currently unavailable, and we
are unable to determine if CCMAS42 will recommend adoptions or
approvals at CAC46.
The Committee is expected to continue working on:
Revised General Guidelines on Sampling (CXG 50-2004)
Amendments to certain provisions in Recommended Methods of
Analysis and Sampling (CXS 234-1999)
Responsible Agencies: HHS/FDA/CFSAN; USDA/AMS.
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, or 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 its 42nd Session virtually from November 19-
25, 2021, with report adoption taking place on December 1, 2021. The
relevant document is REP22/NFSDU.
The Committee has the following item that will be considered by the
45th Session of the Commission.
To be considered for final adoption at Step 8:
Guidelines for Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Foods (RUTF)
The 43rd Session of the CCNFSDU (CCNFSDU43) is scheduled to convene
March 6-10, 2023. The CCNFSDU43 agenda is currently unavailable, and we
are unable to determine if CCNFSDU43 will recommend adoptions or
approvals at CAC46.
The Committee is expected to continue working on:
Review of the Standard for Follow-up Formula: Section A &
Section B: scope, description, essential composition and labelling; and
remaining sections; (CXS 156-1987)
General Principles for the establishment of Nutrient Reference
Values--Requirements (NRVs-R) for persons aged 6-36 months
Responsible Agencies: HHS/FDA/CFSAN; USDA/ARS.
U.S. Participation: Yes.
Codex Committee on Pesticide Residues
The Codex Committee on Pesticide Residues (CCPR) is responsible for
establishing maximum residue limits (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 52nd Session of the Committee (CCPR52) met virtually July 26-
August
[[Page 39050]]
3, 2021. The relevant document is REP 21/PR.
The Committee had the following items which were considered by the
44th Session of the Codex Alimentarius Commission in November 2021.
Adopted at Step 8 and 5/8 (final adoption):
402 MRLs for different pesticide residues
Revisions of the Classification: Class C: Primary Feed
Commodities. Type 11: Primary Feed Commodities of Plant Origin, All
Groups
Revisions of the Classification: Class D: Processed Food
Commodities of Plant Origin. All Types and Group
Revisions of the Classification: Tables 7 and 8 of Principles
and Guidelines for the Selection of Representative Commodities for the
extrapolation of MRLs for Pesticides to Commodity Group (CXG 84-2012)
The Commission also discontinued work, approved new work, and
revoked existing MRLs as recommended by CCPR52.
The 53rd Session of the CCPR (CCPR53) is scheduled to convene
virtually from July 4-8, 2022, with report adoption taking place on
July 13, 2022. We are unable to determine if CCPR53 will recommend
adoptions or approvals at CAC45.
The Committee is expected to continue working on:
Revision of the Classification of Food and Feed (CXA 4-1989)
for selected commodity groups:
[cir] Revision of Class C, animal feed commodities, taking into
account silage, fodder, and a separate group for grasses
[cir] Revision of Class D, processed food commodities
[cir] Transferring commodities from Class D to Class C
[cir] Creating tables with representative crops for Class C and D
[cir] Edible animal tissues (including edible offal), in
collaboration with the Codex Committee on Residues of Veterinary Drugs
in Foods (CCRVDF) EWG on edible animal tissues
Harmonization of mammalian meat MRLs between CCPR and CCRVDF
Guidelines for compounds of low public health concern that may
be exempted from the establishment of Maximum Residue Limits for
Pesticides (CXLs) or do not give rise to residues
Establishment of a Codex database of national registration of
pesticides
Establishment of JMPR schedules and priority lists for
evaluations of pesticides
Guidelines for compounds of low public health concern that
could be exempted from the establishment of Codex MRLs for pesticides
Management of unsupported compounds in the CCPR schedules and
priority lists of pesticides for evaluation by the JMPR
Review of the Guidelines on the use of mass spectrometry for
the identification, confirmation, and quantitative determination of
pesticide residues (CXG 56-2005) and the Guidelines on performance
criteria for methods of analysis for the determination of pesticide
residues in food and feed (CXG 90-2017)
Opportunities and challenges for JMPR participation in
international review of a new compound
Responsible Agencies: EPA/Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution
Prevention (OCSPP)/Office of Pesticide Programs (OPP); USDA/FSIS.
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 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.
The Committee convened its 25th Session virtually from July 12-16,
2021, with report adoption taking place on July 20, 2021. The relevant
document is REP21/RVDF.
The Committee had the following items which were considered by the
44th Session of the Codex Alimentarius Commission in November 2021.
Adopted at Step 8 and 5/8 (final adoption):
MRL for Flumethrin (honey)
MRL for Diflubenzuron (salmon--muscle plus skin in natural
proportion)
MRL for Halquinol (swine--muscle, skin plus fat, liver and
kidney
Amendment to the Glossary of Terms and Definitions (Residues
of Veterinary Drugs in Foods) (CXA 5-1993): Definition of edible offal
The 26th Session of the CCRVDF (CCRVDF26) is scheduled to convene
February 13-17, 2023. The CCRVDF26 agenda is currently unavailable, and
we are unable to determine if CCRVDF26 will recommend adoptions or
approvals at CAC46.
The Committee is expected to continue working on:
MRLs for ivermectin (sheep, goats, pigs-fat, kidney, liver,
and muscle)
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--REP18/RVDF, App. VI)
Discussion paper on the development of a harmonized definition
for edible tissues of animal origin (including edible offal) (in
coordination with CCPR)
Discussion paper on advantages and disadvantages of a parallel
approach to compound evaluation
Database on countries' needs for MRLs
Priority List of veterinary drugs requiring evaluation or re-
evaluation by JECFA
Responsible Agencies: HHS/FDA/Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM);
USDA/FSIS.
U.S. Participation: Yes.
Codex Committee on Spices and Culinary Herbs
The Codex Committee on Spices and Culinary Herbs (CCSCH) is
responsible for elaborating worldwide standards for spices and culinary
herbs in their dried and dehydrated state in whole, ground, and cracked
or crushed form. CCSCH also consults, as necessary, with other
international organizations in the standards development process to
avoid duplication.
The Committee had the following items which were considered by the
44th Session of the Codex Alimentarius Commission in November 2021.
Adopted at Step 8 (final adoption):
Standard for dried oregano
Standard for dried roots, rhizomes and bulbs-dried or
dehydrated ginger with the food additive provisions as amended and
endorsed by the Codex Committee on Food Additives (CCFA)
Standard for dried floral parts--dried cloves
Standard for dried leaves--dried basil
Approved as new work:
Standard for small cardamom
Standard for turmeric
Group standard for spices in the form of dried fruits and
berries (all spice, juniper berry, star anise and vanilla)
The 6th Session of the CCSCH is scheduled to convene virtually from
September 26-October 10, 2022. The relevant document is CX/SCH 22/6/1.
We are unable to determine if CCSCH will recommend adoptions or
approvals at CAC45.
The Committee is expected to continue working on:
Draft Standard for Saffron
Draft Standard for Dried Seeds--Nutmeg
[[Page 39051]]
Proposed Draft Standard for Dried and/or Dehydrated Chilli
Peppers and Paprika
Proposed Draft Standard for Small Cardamom
Proposed Draft Standard for Spices in Dried Fruits and Berries
(allspices, juniper berry, star anise, and vanilla)
Proposed Draft Standard for Tumeric
Consideration of the Proposals for New Work
Update to the Template for SCH Standards
Responsible Agencies: USDA/AMS; HHS/FDA/CFSAN.
U.S. Participation: Yes.
Ad hoc Codex Intergovernmental Task Force on Antimicrobial Resistance
The Ad hoc Codex Intergovernmental Task Force on Antimicrobial
Resistance (TFAMR) was responsible for 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 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
Organization for Animal Health (OIE) documents. The objective of the
Task Force was 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 was expected to complete this work within three (or a maximum of
four) sessions.
The 8th Session of the Task Force met virtually from October 4-16,
2021. The relevant document is REP 21/AMR.
The Committee had the following items which were considered by the
44th Session of the Codex Alimentarius Commission in November 2021.
Adopted at Step 8 and 5/8 (final adoption):
Code of Practice to Minimize and Contain Antimicrobial
Resistance (CXC 61-2005)
Guidelines on integrated surveillance of antimicrobial
resistance (CXG 94-2021)
TFAMR completed its work and fulfilled the mandate given by the
CAC, therefore no further meetings are required, and the Task Force was
dissolved at the 44th Session of the Commission.
Responsible Agencies: HHS/FDA; USDA/Office of the Chief Scientist.
U.S. Participation: Yes.
Adjourned Codex Commodity Committees
Several Codex Alimentarius Commodity Committees have adjourned sine
die. The following Committees fall into this category:
Cereals, Pulses and Legumes--Adjourned Sine Die 2020
Responsible Agency: HHS/FDA/CFSAN.
U.S. Participation: Yes.
Cocoa Products and Chocolate--Adjourned Sine Die 2001
Responsible Agency: HHS/FDA/CFSAN.
U.S. Participation: Yes.
Meat Hygiene--Adjourned Sine Die 2003
Responsible Agency: USDA/FSIS.
U.S. Participation: Yes.
Milk and Milk Products--Adjourned Sine Die 2017
Responsible Agency: USDA/AMS; HHS/FDA/CFSAN.
U.S. Participation: Yes.
Natural Mineral Waters--Adjourned Sine Die 2008
Responsible Agency: HHS/FDA/CFSAN.
U.S. Participation: Yes.
Processed Fruits and Vegetables--Adjourned Sine Die 2020
Responsible Agency: USDA/AMS; HHS/FDA/CFSAN.
U.S. Participation: Yes.
Sugars--Adjourned Sine Die 2019
Responsible Agency: HHS/FDA/CFSAN.
U.S. Participation: Yes.
Vegetable Proteins--Adjourned Sine Die 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 Coordinating Committee for Africa (CCAFRICA) did not meet in
2021. The 24th Session of CCAFRICA is scheduled to convene virtually
from September 5-9, 2022, with report adoption taking place on
September 13, 2022. The agenda is not yet available, and it is not
possible to determine whether any texts will be forwarded for
consideration by CAC45.
Responsible Party: USDA/TFAA/USCO.
U.S. Participation: Yes (as an observer).
Coordinating Committee for Asia
The Coordinating Committee for Asia (CCASIA) did not meet in 2021.
The 22nd Session of CCASIA is scheduled to convene virtually from
October 12-18, 2022, with report adoption on October 21. The agenda is
not yet available, and it is not possible to determine whether any
texts will be forwarded for consideration by CAC45.
Responsible Party: USDA/TFAA/USCO.
U.S. Participation: Yes (as an observer).
[[Page 39052]]
Coordinating Committee for Europe
The Coordinating Committee for Europe (CCEURO) convened its 32nd
Session virtually from May 16-18, 2022, with report adoption taking
place on May 20, 2022.
The Coordinating Committee discussed the following agenda items:
Matters arising from the Codex Alimentarius Commission and
Codex subsidiary bodies
Food safety and quality in the region including current and
emerging issues--country updates
Updates on FAO and WHO work of regional interest
Codex work relevant to the region
Implementation of the Codex Strategic Plan 2020-2025
Nomination of the Regional Coordinator
Responsible Party: USDA/TFAA/USCO.
U.S. Participation: Yes (as an observer).
Coordinating Committee for Latin America and the Caribbean
The Coordinating Committee for Latin America and the Caribbean
(CCLAC) did not meet in 2021. The 22nd Session of CCLAC is scheduled to
convene virtually October 24-28, 2022. The agenda is not yet available,
and it is not possible to determine whether any texts will be forwarded
for consideration by CAC45.
Responsible Party: USDA/TFAA/USCO.
U.S. Participation: Yes (as an observer).
Coordinating Committee for North America and the South West Pacific
The Coordinating Committee for North America and the South West
Pacific (CCNASWP) did not meet in 2021, nor does it plan to in 2022.
The 16th Session of the CCNASWP is scheduled to convene from January
30-February 3, 2023. The meeting agenda is not currently available.
The Committee is expected to continue working on:
Draft regional standard for fermented noni fruit juice
Responsible Party: USDA/TFAA/USCO.
U.S. Participation: Yes.
Coordinating Committee for the Near East
The Coordinating Committee for the Near East (CCNE) did not meet in
2021, nor does it plan to in 2022. The next CCNE meeting is planned for
2023.
Responsible Party: USDA/TFAA/USCO.
U.S. Participation: Yes (as an observer).
Contact Information
U.S. Codex Office, United States Department of Agriculture, Room
4861, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-3700, Phone: +1
(202) 205-7760, Email: [email protected].
[FR Doc. 2022-14018 Filed 6-29-22; 8:45 am]
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