[Federal Register Volume 89, Number 126 (Monday, July 1, 2024)]
[Notices]
[Pages 54404-54411]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2024-14399]


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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 
 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 
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  Federal Register / Vol. 89, No. 126 / Monday, July 1, 2024 / 
Notices  

[[Page 54404]]



DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

U.S. Codex Office

[Docket No. USDA-2024-0004]


International Standard-Setting Activities

AGENCY: Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs (TFAA), USDA.

ACTION: Notice.

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

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 of June 1, 2023, to May 31, 2024, 
and June 1, 2024, to May 31, 2025, 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, U.S. Codex Office, 
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 (i.e., USCO) and docket number USDA-2024-0004. 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 U.S. delegate to the committee.
    Docket: For access to background documents or comments received, 
email [email protected] 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, Email: [email protected].
    For information pertaining to committees, contact the U.S. delegate 
for that committee. A complete list of 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 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 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 (WOAH, founded as 
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 54405]]

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: Sanitary 
and Phytosanitary Activities of Codex, 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 each agenda item; 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: [email protected].
    The information provided in Attachment 1: Sanitary and 
Phytosanitary Activities of Codex describes the status of Codex 
standard-setting activities by the Codex committees for the time 
periods from June 1, 2023, to May 31, 2024, and June 1, 2024, to May 
31, 2025. A list of forthcoming Codex sessions may be found at: https://www.fao.org/fao-who-codexalimentarius/meetings/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.usda.gov/codex.

    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 46th Session (CAC46) from November 27 to December 2, 2023, in 
Rome, Italy, with report adoption taking place on December 2, 2023. 
The relevant document is REP23/CAC. The actions taken by the 
Commission at CAC46 (e.g., adoption, revocation, approval of new 
work, discontinuation of work, amendments, etc.) are described below 
under the respective Codex Committees.
    The Commission is scheduled to convene its 47th Session (CAC47) 
from November 25-30, 2024, in Geneva, Switzerland. At its 47th 
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 47th 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; any other business; and adoption of the report.
    The Executive Committee (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 currently 
participates as an advisor to Canada, the member elected on a 
geographical basis for North America.
    CCEXEC convened its 84th Session (CCEXEC84) from July 10-14, 
2023, in Geneva, Switzerland. The relevant document is REP23/EXEC1. 
In addition to critical review of standards development (i.e., 
discussion of recommendations to CAC46 on the work of Codex 
Committees), CCEXEC84 discussed the Blueprint on the Future of 
Codex; a revised monitoring framework for the Codex Strategic Plan 
2020-2025; timetable and process for development of the Codex 
Strategic Plan 2026-2031; review of international non-governmental 
organizations with observer status in Codex; application of the 
criteria for regional Codex standards; plans outlined by the CAC 
chair and vice-chairs for additional consultations related to the 
consideration of maximum residue limits for the veterinary drug 
zilpaterol hydrochloride (adopted at Step 5, interim adoption, by 
CAC45 in 2022); and other business, including a brief exchange of 
views regarding the importance of the joint WHO/FAO scientific 
advice program and independent expert risk assessments in supporting 
Codex standards and the need to avoid potential duplication and 
inconsistent communications due to the undertaking of hazard 
identification reviews by another WHO-affiliated body.
    CCEXEC convened its 85th Session (CCEXEC85) from November 20-24, 
2023, in Rome, Italy. The relevant document is REP23/EXEC2. In 
addition to critical review (i.e., discussion of recommendations to 
CAC46 on the work of additional Codex Committees that had met since 
CCEXEC84), CCEXEC85 discussed the Blueprint on the Future of Codex; 
intersessional work on the draft of initial sections of the Codex 
Strategic Plan 2026-2031; Codex budgetary and financial matters; 
matters arising from FAO and WHO; review of international non-
governmental organizations with observer status in Codex; 
application of the criteria for regional Codex standards; and other 
business including a report from the CAC chair and vice-chairs on 
consultations related to the consideration of maximum residue limits 
for zilpaterol hydrochloride, and a proposal from the United States 
to consider the development of Codex guidance on food safety 
considerations related to the use of recycled material in food 
packaging. CCEXEC85 also had further discussion on the need to avoid 
duplication of scientific reviews by WHO-affiliated bodies and noted 
the commitment of WHO to address the matter and enhance coordination 
in the future.
    CCEXEC will convene its 86th Session (CCEXEC86) from July 1-5, 
2024, in Rome, Italy. CCEXEC86 is expected to discuss critical 
review (i.e., recommendations to

[[Page 54406]]

CAC47 on the work of Codex Committees); key elements of the Model 
for Future Codex Work; the Codex Strategic Plan for 2026-2031; Codex 
budgetary and financial matters; applications from international 
non-governmental organizations for observer status in Codex; and 
other business.
    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 46th Session of the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC46) in 
November 2023:
    Final adoption at Step 8 or Step 5/8:

 Code of Practice for Prevention and Reduction of Mycotoxin 
Contamination in Cassava and cassava-based products
 ML for lead in ready-to eat meals for infants and young 
children
 ML for lead in soft brown, raw and non-centrifugal sugars
 ML for total aflatoxins in dried chilli and nutmeg, and ML 
for ochratoxin A in dried chilli, paprika, and nutmeg

    Approval as new work:

 Code of Practice/Guidelines for the prevention or reduction 
of ciguatera poisoning

    CCCF convened its 17th Session (CCCF17) from April 15-19, 2024, 
in Panama City, Panama, with report adoption taking place on April 
19, 2024. The relevant document is REP24/CF17. CCCF17 advanced the 
following items for consideration by the 47th Session of the Codex 
Alimentarius Commission (CAC47) in November 2024:
    For final adoption at Step 8 and Step 5/8:

 MLs for lead in spices, dried aril; dried seeds (including 
a separate ML for celery seeds); dried rhizomes and roots, dried 
floral parts; and spices, dried fruit, and berries (including 
separate MLs for Sichuan pepper, star anise, paprika, and sumac)
 Sampling plans for methylmercury in fish
 Code of Practice for the Prevention and Reduction of 
Ciguatera Poisoning
 MLs for cadmium and lead in quinoa

    For approval as new work:

 A revision of the Code of Practice for the Prevention and 
Reduction of Aflatoxin Contamination in Peanuts (CXC 55-2004)
 A code of practice for the prevention and reduction of 
cadmium contamination in foods

    The 18th Session of CCCF (CCCF18) is scheduled to convene again 
from June 23-27, 2025. The Committee is expected to continue working 
on:

 ML for total aflatoxins in ready to-eat peanuts and 
associated sampling plan
 MLs for lead in dried bark and dried culinary herbs
 Sampling plans for total aflatoxins and ochratoxin A in 
certain spices
 New work on the revision of the Code of Practice for the 
Prevention and Reduction of Aflatoxin Contamination in Peanuts (CXC 
55-2004)
 New work on a code of practice for the prevention and 
reduction of cadmium contamination in foods
 Discussion paper on the revision of the Code of Practice to 
Prevent and Reduce Pyrrolizidine Alkaloid Contamination in Food and 
Feed
 Discussion paper on tropane alkaloids
 Discussion paper on the revision of the Code of Practice 
for the Reduction of Acrylamide in Foods
 Discussion paper on the revision of the Code of Practice 
for the Reduction of Aflatoxin B1 in Raw Materials and Supplemental 
Feedingstuffs for Milk-Producing Animals
 Numeric Performance Criteria for methods for Total 
Aflatoxins utilizing the sum of components concept (in relevant 
sampling plans)
 Guidance on data analysis for ML development and improved 
data collection
 Review of Codex standards for contaminants
 Priority list of contaminants for evaluation by JECFA and 
follow-up work to the outcomes of JECFA evaluations and FAO/WHO 
expert consultations
 Comments in response to a Circular Letter requesting 
information on the application of MLs to multi-ingredient products, 
new risk management measures for the reduction of acrylamide in 
food, and emerging issues relevant to CCCF

    Responsible Agencies: HHS/FDA/Center for Food Safety and Applied 
Nutrition (CFSAN); 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.
    CCFO convened its 28th Session (CCFO28) from February 19-23, 
2024, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, with report adoption taking place 
on February 23, 2024. The relevant document is REP24/FO. CCFO28 
advanced the following items for consideration by CAC47 in November 
2024:
    For final adoption at Step 8 and Step 5/8:

 Amendment/Revision of the Standard for Named Vegetable Oils 
(CXS 210-1999): inclusion of avocado oil, camellia seed oil, sacha 
inchi oil, and high oleic acid soya bean oil
 Revision of the Standard for Olive Oils and Pomace Olive 
Oils (CXS 33-1981)
 Amendment/Revision of the Standard for Fish Oils (CXS 329-
2017): inclusion of Calanus oil

    For approval as new work:

 A standard for microbial omega-3 oils
 Proposed revisions to the Codex standards on fats and oils 
to reduce Trans-Fatty Acid intake

    CCFO is tentatively scheduled to convene its 29th Session 
(CCFO24) from February 9-13, 2026. The Committee is expected to 
continue work on:

 Collection and assessment for suitability of global 
scientific data and information on individual samples of olive oil, 
in order to make recommendations on the need and process for further 
analysis of the data and establishment of methods of analysis and 
sampling
 Consideration of proposals on new substances to be added to 
the List of Acceptable Previous Cargoes

    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.
    CCFFP is working by correspondence and will meet virtually from 
October 7-17, 2024 on the Electronic Working Group (EWG) platform to 
complete its current work. The Committee is working on:

 The Standard for Canned Sardines and Sardine-Type Products 
(CXS 94-1981), inclusion of the fish species S. lemuru (Bali 
Sardinella) in the list of Sardinella species under section 2.1.

    Responsible Agencies: HHS/FDA/CFSAN; DOC/NOAA/National Marine 
Fisheries Service (NMFS).
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

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 had the following items which were considered by 
CAC46 in November 2023:
    Final adoption at Step 8 and Step 5/8:

 Draft and proposed draft food additive provisions of the 
General Standard for

[[Page 54407]]

Food Additives (GSFA, CXS 192-1995) and revisions to adopted 
provisions
 Proposed draft revision of the Class Names and the 
International Numbering System for Food Additives (CXG 36-1989)
 Proposed draft Specifications for the Identity and Purity 
of Food Additives (CXA 6-2021)

    Approval as new work:

 Proposals for new food additive provisions of the GSFA
 Priority List of substances proposed for evaluation by 
JECFA

    The 54th Session of CCFA (CCFA54) convened from April 22-26, 
2024 in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China. The relevant document is 
REP24/FA. CCFA54 advanced the following items for consideration by 
CAC47 in November 2024:
    For final adoption at Step 8 and Step 5/8:

 Draft and proposed draft food additive provisions of the 
GSFA (CXS 192-1995) and revisions to adopted provisions
 Proposed draft revision of the Class Names and the 
International Numbering System for Food Additives (CXG 36-1989)
 Proposed draft Specifications for the Identity and Purity 
of Food Additives (CXM 6-2021)

    Other:

 Revised food additive provisions of the GSFA in relation to 
the alignment of standards from the Codex Committee on Milk and Milk 
Products (CCMMP); the Codex Committee on Processed Fruits and 
Vegetables (CCPFV); the Coordinating Committee for the Near East 
(CCNE); the Coordinating Committee for Asia (CCASIA); and the 
Coordinating Committee for Latin America and the Caribbean (CCLAC)
 Discontinuation of draft and proposed food additive 
provisions and revocation of existing food additive provisions as 
recommended by CCFA54

    For approval as new work:

 Proposed new work on the development of a standard for 
baker's yeast

    CCFA is scheduled to convene its 55th Session (CCFA55) from 
March 24-28, 2025. The Committee is expected to continue work on:

 New or revised provisions of the GSFA
 The alignment and the endorsement of food-additive 
provisions referred by Commodity Committees
 Revision of the Class Names and the International Numbering 
System for Food Additives (CXG 36-1989)
 Proposal for additions and changes to the Priority List of 
Substances proposed for evaluation by JECFA

    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 Committee had the following items which were considered by 
CAC46 in November 2023:
    Final adoption at Step 8:

 Guidelines for the Control of Shiga Toxin-Producing 
Escherichia coli (STEC) in Raw Beef, Fresh Leafy Vegetables, Raw 
Milk and Raw Milk Cheeses, and Sprouts (General Section, Annex I on 
raw beef, and Annex III on raw milk and raw milk cheeses)
 Guidelines for the Safe Use and Reuse of Water in Food 
Production and Processing (General Section and Annex I on Fresh 
Produce)

    Approval as new work:

 Guidelines for food hygiene control measures in traditional 
markets for food
 Revision of the Guidelines on the Application of the 
General Principles of Food Hygiene to the Control of Pathogenic 
Vibrio Species in Seafood (CXG 73-2010)

    The 54th Session of CCFH (CCFH54) convened from March 11-15, 
2024, in Nairobi, Kenya. The relevant document is REP 24/FH. CCFH54 
advanced the following items for consideration by CAC47 in November 
2024:
    For final adoption at Step 5/8:

 Guidelines for the Control of Shiga Toxin-Producing 
Escherichia coli (STEC) in Raw Beef, Fresh Leafy Vegetables, Raw 
Milk and Raw Milk Cheeses, and Sprouts (CXG 99-2023) (Annexes on 
Fresh Leafy Vegetables and Sprouts)
 Guidelines for the Safe Use and Reuse of Water in Food 
Production and Processing (CXG 100-2023) (Annex on Milk and Milk 
Products)
 Guidelines for Food Hygiene Control Measures in Traditional 
Markets for Food

    For approval as new work:

 Revision of the Guidelines on the Application of General 
Principles of Food Hygiene to the Control of Viruses in Food (CXG 
79-2012)
 Revision of the Guidelines for the Control of Campylobacter 
and Salmonella in Chicken Meat (CXG 78-2011)
 Revision of the Guidelines on the Application of General 
Principles of Food Hygiene to the Control of Listeria monocytogenes 
in Foods (CXG 61-2007)

    CCFH is scheduled to convene its 55th Session (CCFH55) from 
December 8-11, 2025, in the United States. The Committee is expected 
to continue work on:

 Guidelines for the Safe Use and Re-Use of Water in Food 
Production (CXG 100-2023) (Revision on Annex on Fish and Fishery 
Products and Drafting of Annex related to water-fit-for-purpose 
assessment, safety management, and technologies for recovery and 
treatment of water for reuse)
 Alignment of CCFH documents with the revised General 
Principles of Food Hygiene (CXC 1-1969)
 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 
CAC46 in November 2023:
    Final adoption at Step 5/8:

 Guidelines on recognition and maintenance of equivalence of 
national food control systems (NFCS)
 Principles and guidelines on the use of remote audit and 
inspection in regulatory frameworks

    Approval as new work:

 Reviewing and updating the Principles for Traceability/
Product Tracing as a Tool within a Food Inspection and Certification 
System (CXG 60-2006)

    The 27th Session of CCFICS (CCFICS27) is scheduled to convene 
from September 16-20, 2024, in Cairns, Australia. We are unable to 
determine if CCFICS27 will recommend adoptions or approvals at 
CAC47.
    The Committee is expected to continue work on:

 Draft Consolidated Codex Guidelines related to Equivalence;
 Draft Guidelines on the Prevention and Control of Food 
Fraud;
 Draft revision and updating of the Principles for 
Traceability/Product Tracing as a Tool Within a Food Inspection and 
Certification System (CXG 60-2006);

[[Page 54408]]

 Discussion paper on guidance on appeals mechanism in the 
context of rejection of imported food; and
 Review and update of Appendix A--the list of emerging 
global issues.

    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 Committee advanced the following items for consideration by 
CAC46 in November 2023:
    Interim adoption at Step 5:

 Revision to the General Standard for the Labelling of Pre-
packaged Foods (CXS 1-1985): provisions relevant to allergen 
labelling
 Guidelines on the Provision of Food Information for Pre-
packaged Foods to be Offered Via E-Commerce
 Guidelines on the Use of Technology to Provide Food 
Information

    Approval as new work:

 Amendment to the General Standard for the Labelling of Pre-
packaged Foods (CXS 1-1985): Labelling of pre-packaged foods in 
joint presentation and multipack formats

    The 48th Session of CCFL (CCFL48) will convene from October 27-
November 1, 2024, in Quebec City, Canada. We are unable to determine 
if CCFL48 will recommend adoptions or approvals at CAC47.
    The Committee is expected to continue work on:

 Proposed draft guidelines on the provision of food 
information for pre-packaged foods to be offered via e-commerce
 Proposed draft revision to the General Standard for the 
Labelling of Prepackaged Foods (CXS 1-1985): provisions relevant to 
allergen labeling and guidelines on precautionary allergen labeling
 Proposed draft guidelines on the use of technology to 
provide food information
 Discussion paper on the labelling of alcoholic beverages
 Discussion paper on the application of food labelling 
provisions in emergencies
 Discussion paper on trans fatty acids (TFA)
 Discussion paper on sustainability-related labelling: 
revision to the General Guidelines on Claims (CXG 1-1979)
 Discussion paper on future work and direction of CCFL: 
criteria for the evaluation and prioritization of work of CCFL
    Responsible Agencies: HHS/FDA/CFSAN; USDA/FSIS.
    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 33rd Session of CCGP (CCGP33) met in October 2-6, 2023, in 
Bordeaux, France. The relevant document is REP 24/GP. CCGP33 
recommended minor updating and editorial amendments to the 
Procedural Manual, which were adopted by CAC46. The Committee is 
expected to continue discussions on:

 Revisions/amendments to Codex texts
 Format and structure of the Codex Procedural Manual (PM)
[cir] Proposed changes to Section 2 of the PM, Elaboration of Codex 
standards and related texts, Procedures for the elaboration of Codex 
standards and related texts, Part 7 Guide to the procedure for the 
amendment and revision of Codex standards and related texts, and 
related paragraphs
[cir] Procedures in section 3 of the PM, Guidelines for subsidiary 
bodies, to identify text to be updated, in line with current 
practices; and
[cir] Inconsistencies in language and superseded content of the PM, 
apart from section 3.

    The 34th Session of CCGP (CCGP34) is expected to convene 
sometime in the spring of 2025 in France.
    Responsible Agencies: USDA/TFAA/USCO.
    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.
    CCMAS convened its 42nd Session (CCMAS42) from June 12-16, 2023, 
in Budapest, Hungary, with virtual report adoption on June 20, 2023. 
The relevant document is REP23/MAS. The Committee advanced the 
following items for consideration at CAC46 in November 2023:
    Final adoption at Step 8 and 5/8:

 Revised General Guidelines on Sampling (CXG 50-2004)
 Methods of analysis/performance criteria for provisions in 
Codex commodity standards for fats and oils; cereals, pulses and 
legumes; and processed fruits and vegetables for inclusion in CXS 
234-1999, and the sampling plans for total aflatoxins in certain 
cereals and cereal-based products including foods for infants and 
young children for inclusion in CXS 193-1995 (CXS 234-1999, CXS 193-
1995)

    CCMAS convened its 43rd Session (CCMAS43) from May 13-18, 2024, 
in Budapest, Hungary, with report adoption taking place on May 18, 
2024. The relevant document is Draft REP24/MAS. CCMAS43 advanced the 
following items for consideration by CAC47 in November 2024:

 Methods of analysis and numeric performance criteria for 
sorbates, benzoic acid, and calcium for selected processed fruits 
and vegetables for adoption/revocation
 Sampling plan for methylmercury in fish for inclusion in 
the General Standard for Contaminants and Toxins in Food and Feed 
(CXS 193-1995)
 Revocation of the General Methods for the Detection of 
Irradiated Foods (CXS 231-2001)
 Methods of analysis for cereals, pulses, and legumes for 
adoption/revocation as part of the update to Recommended Methods of 
Analysis and Sampling (CXS 234-1999)
 Methods of analysis for fish and fishery products and new 
or amended performance criteria for adoption/revocation as part of 
the update to CXS 234-1999
 Methods of analysis for spices and culinary herbs for 
adoption
 Methods of analysis for olive and olive pomace oils and 
fish oil for adoption/revocation
 Document titled ``Nitrogen to protein conversion factors'' 
for adoption and inclusion as an Appendix to the CXS 234-1999

    The 44th Session of CCMAS (CCMAS44) will convene from May 5-9, 
2025 in Budapest, Hungary. The Committee is expected to continue 
work on:

 Amendments to certain provisions in CXS 234-1999
 Review the methods for fruit juices and cocoa products and 
chocolate
 Methods of analysis for precautionary allergen labeling
 Information document for the General Guidelines on Sampling 
(CXG 50-2004) e-book with sampling plans applications
 Numeric performance criteria for the determination of 
nitrate and nitrite ions in certain food matrices
 Harmonization of names and format for principles identified 
in CXS 234-1999


[[Page 54409]]


    Responsible Agencies: HHS/FDA/CFSAN; USDA/Agricultural Marketing 
Service (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 had the following items which were considered by 
CAC46 in November 2023:
    Final adoption at Step 8 and 5/8:

 Revised Standard for Follow-up Formula (CXS 156-1987), 
renamed as the Standard for Follow-up Formula for Older Infants and 
Product for Young Children

    Interim adoption at Step 5:

 General Principles for establishing Nutrient Reference 
Values (NRVs-R) for persons aged 6 to 36 months

    CCNFSDU will convene its 44th Session (CCNFSDU44) from October 
2-6, 2024 in Dresden, Germany. We are unable to determine if 
CCNFSDU44 will recommend adoptions or approvals at CAC47.
    The Committee is expected to continue work on:

 General Principles for the Establishment of Nutrient 
Reference Values--Requirements (NRVs-R) for persons aged 6-36 months
 Collection and review of information on the use, and use 
levels for five identified additives and their technological 
justification
 Methods of analysis for optional ingredients in the 
Standard for Infant Formula and Formulas for Special Medical 
Purposes Intended for Infants (CXS 72-1981)
 Redrafting of the prioritization mechanism/emerging issues 
for new work proposals
 Redrafting of the discussion paper for harmonized probiotic 
guidelines
 Redrafting the discussion paper on guidelines for the 
nutritional composition of foods and beverages made from non-animal 
and insect protein sources

    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 54th Session of CCPR (CCPR54) convened in Beijing, China 
from June 26-July 1, 2023. The relevant document is REP23/PR. CCPR54 
advanced the following items for consideration by CAC46 in November 
2023:
    Final adoption at Step 8 and 5/8:

 Over 400 Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) for different 
combinations of pesticides/commodities
 Revision of the Codex Classification of Foods and Animal 
Feeds (CXA 4-1989):
[cir] the revised Class B- Primary food commodities of animal origin 
and Class E -Processed Foods of Animal Origin (All Types) and their 
respective table of representative commodities;
[cir] the consequential amendment to Table 2, Subgroup 12C Eggplant 
and eggplant-like commodities to the Principles and Guidance on the 
Selection of Representative Commodities for the Extrapolation of 
MRLs for Pesticides to Commodity Groups (CXG 84-2012);
[cir] the consequential amendment to the revised definition for the 
portion of the commodity to which MRLs apply and which is analyzed 
for Group 006--Tropical Fruits of Inedible Peel and 023--Oil fruits; 
and
[cir] the consequential amendments to the inclusion of new 
commodities/commodity codes in Class A--Primary food commodities of 
plant origin and Class D--Processed commodities of plant origin

    CAC46 also discontinued work, approved new work, and revoked 
existing MRLs as recommended by CCPR54.
    Revocation:

 The Guidelines on Portion of Commodities to which MRLs 
Apply and which is Analyzed (CXG 41-1993); this document was 
replaced by the revised Classification of Foods and Animal Feeds 
(CXA 4-1989) as the single, authoritative reference for the 
establishment of MRLs for pesticides

    Approval as new work:

 Guidance for monitoring the purity and stability of 
reference materials of multi-class pesticides during prolonged 
storage

    The 55th Session of CCPR (CCPR55) convened in Chengdu, China 
from June 3-8, 2024, in Chengdu, China. The relevant document is 
Draft REP24/PR. CCPR55 advanced the following items for 
consideration by CAC47 in November 2024:
    For final adoption at Step 8 and 5/8:

 Over 275 Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) for different 
combinations of pesticides/commodities

    For interim adoption at Step 5:

 Guidelines for Monitoring the Stability and Purity of 
Reference Materials and Related Stock Solutions of Pesticides during 
Prolonged Storage

    Other:

 Consequential amendments to CXLs for peppers groups and 
subgroups to implement the decision taken by CCPR on MRLs for okra
 Discontinuation/withdrawal of work and revocation of 
existing MRLs as recommended by CCPR55

    The 56th Session of CCPR (CCPR56) will convene from May 19-24, 
2025 in China. The Committee is expected to continue work on:

 Coordination of work between CCPR and the Codex Committee 
on Residues of Veterinary Drugs in Foods (CCRVDF): Joint CCPR/CCRVDF 
Working Group on Compounds for Dual Use as both pesticides and 
veterinary drugs
 Management of unsupported compounds without public health 
concern scheduled for periodic review
 Establishment of Codex schedules and priority lists of 
pesticides for evaluation/re-evaluation by JMPR
 Enhancement of the operational procedures of CCPR and JMPR

    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 had the following items which were considered by 
CAC46 in November 2023:
    Final adoption at Step 8 and Step 5/8:

 MRLs for ivermectin (sheep, pigs, and goats--fat, kidney, 
liver, and muscle)
 MRLs for nicarbazin (chicken)
 MRLs extrapolated to ruminants and finfish
 MRLs for zilpaterol hydrochloride (cattle kidney, liver, 
muscle)

    The 27th Session of CCRVDF (CCRVDF27) is scheduled to convene 
from October 21-25, 2024. The CCRVDF27 location and agenda are 
currently unavailable, and we are unable to determine if CCRVDF27 
will recommend adoptions or approvals at CAC47. The Committee is 
expected to continue work on:

 Extrapolation of MRLs between species and to edible offal 
tissues
 Establishment of action levels for residues of veterinary 
drugs in edible tissues caused by unavoidable and unintended 
carryover of veterinary drug residues in animal feed
 Coordination between CCRVDF and CCPR on issues affecting 
both committees (e.g., harmonization of MRLs for similar edible 
commodities of animal origin; harmonization of risk assessment 
methodologies; data-sharing for dual-use compounds)
 Priority List of veterinary drugs requiring evaluation or 
re-evaluation by JECFA


[[Page 54410]]


    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 7th Session of CCSCH (CCSCH7) convened from January 29 to 
February 2, 2024, in Kochi, Kerala, India. The relevant document is 
REP24/SCH. CCSCH7 advanced the following items for consideration by 
CAC47 in November 2024:
    For adoption at Step 8 and/or Step 5/8:

 draft standard for dried or dehydrated small cardamom
 draft standard for spices derived from dried or dehydrated 
fruits and berries--allspice, juniper berry and star anise
 draft standard for dried or dehydrated roots, rhizomes and 
bulbs--turmeric

    For interim adoption at Step 5:

 draft standard for spices derived from dried or dehydrated 
fruits and berries--vanilla

    For approval as new work:

 development of a standard for sweet marjoram
 development of a standard for dried seeds--coriander
 development of a standard for large cardamom
 development of a standard for cinnamon

    The 8th Session of the CCSCH (CCSCH8) is expected to convene 
approximately 18 months following CCSCH7. The Committee is expected 
to continue work on:

 a standard for spices derived from dried or dehydrated 
fruits and berries--vanilla
 a standard for sweet marjoram
 a standard for dried seeds--coriander
 a standard for large cardamon
 a standard for cinnamon
 a potential update to the template for spices and culinary 
herbs standards

    Responsible Agencies: USDA/AMS; HHS/FDA/CFSAN.
    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--Aadjourned 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) convened its 
24th Session (CCAFRICA24) virtually from September 5-9, 2022, and 
expected to convene its 25th Session (CCAFRICA25) in approximately 
two years' time following CCAFRICA24. The CCAFRICA25 date, location, 
and agenda are currently unavailable. CAC47 is not expected to 
consider any agenda items from CCAFRICA.
    Responsible Party: USDA/TFAA/USCO.
    U.S. Participation: Yes (as an observer).

Coordinating Committee for Asia

    The Coordinating Committee for Asia (CCASIA) convened its 22nd 
Session (CCASIA22) virtually from October 12-18, 2022, with report 
adoption taking place on October 21, 2022. The relevant document is 
REP23/ASIA. CCASIA22 agreed to advance the following items for 
consideration at CAC46 in November 2023:
    For final adoption at Step 8 or Step 5/8:

 Proposed draft regional standard for soybean products 
fermented with Bacillus species;
 Proposed draft regional standard for cooked rice wrapped in 
plant leaves;
 Amendment to the labelling provisions for non-retail 
containers in relevant CCASIA regional standards.

    For interim adoption at Step 5:

 Proposed draft regional standard for quick frozen dumpling.

    CCASIA planned to convene its 23rd Session (CCASIA23) in 
approximately two years' time following CCASIA22. The date, 
location, and agenda for CCASIA23 are currently unavailable. CAC47 
is not expected to consider any agenda items from CCASIA.
    Responsible Party: USDA/TFAA/USCO.
    U.S. Participation: Yes (as an observer).

Coordinating Committee for Europe

    The Coordinating Committee for Europe (CCEURO) convened its 33rd 
Session (CCEURO33) from May 27-31, 2024, in Berlin, Germany. The 
relevant document is REP24/EURO. CCEURO33 agreed to advance the 
following items for consideration at CAC46 in November 2023:

 Reappointment of Germany as the Coordinator for Europe for 
a second term
 To request that the CAC address inclusion of the One Health 
approach, digitalization and loss of biodiversity, and collaboration 
with other international organizations in the Codex Strategic Plan 
2026-2031

    CCEURO plans to convene its 34th Session (CCEURO34) in 
approximately two and half years' time following CCEURO33.
    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) will convene its 23rd Session (CCLAC23) virtually from July 
22-26, 2024. CCLAC23 is expected to consider work relevant to the 
region; current and emerging food safety and quality in the region; 
a draft regional standard for Castilla lulo; implementation of the 
Codex Strategic Plan in the LAC region; use and impact of Codex 
standards in the region; nomination of the Coordinator for LAC; and 
other business. We are unable to determine if CCLAC23 will recommend 
adoptions or approvals at CAC47.
    Responsible Party: USDA/TFAA/USCO.
    U.S. Participation: Yes (as an observer).

[[Page 54411]]

Coordinating Committee for North America and the South West Pacific

    The Coordinating Committee for North America and the South West 
Pacific (CCNASWP) convened its 16th Session (CCNASWP16) in Nadi, 
Fiji, from January 30 to February 3, 2023. CCNASWP16 advanced the 
following item for consideration by CAC46 in November 2023:
    For final adoption at Step 8:

 Draft regional standard for fermented noni fruit juice

    CCNASWP is expected to convene its 17th Session (CCNASWP17) 
sometime in early 2025 in Fiji. The CCNASWP17 date, location, and 
agenda are currently unavailable.
    Responsible Party: USDA/TFAA/USCO.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Coordinating Committee for the Near East

    The Coordinating Committee for the Near East (CCNE) convened its 
11th Session (CCNE11) in 2023 in Rome, Italy from September 18-22, 
2023. CCNE advanced the following items for consideration by CAC46 
in November 2023:
    For interim adoption at Step 5:

 Regional Standard for Maamoul

    CCNE is expected to convene its 12th session (CCNE12) in 
approximately two years' time following CCNE11. The CCNE12 date, 
location, and agenda are currently unavailable. CAC47 is not 
expected to consider any agenda items from CCNE.
    Responsible Party: USDA/TFAA/USCO.
    U.S. Participation: Yes (as an observer).

[FR Doc. 2024-14399 Filed 6-28-24; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3420-3F-P