[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
________________________________________________________________________
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. 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.
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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 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