To elevate global food quality standards, India has strongly advocated for the enhancement of quality benchmarks for key spices, including small cardamom, vanilla, and turmeric, at the 86th session of the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC) held in Rome. This initiative underscores India’s commitment to ensuring food safety and facilitating smoother international trade in these essential commodities.
The session, organized by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO), took place from July 1-5 and focused on advancing global food standards. India’s participation in the executive committee (CCEXEC) of the CAC, as a geographically elected member from Asia, highlights its proactive role in the international food safety and quality landscape.
India’s Active Role at Codex Alimentarius Commission
G Kamala Vardhana Rao, CEO of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), represented the country at the meeting held at the FAO headquarters. During the session, Rao emphasized the importance of strengthening standards for spices, which are crucial for India’s agricultural export economy.
“India, as a major producer and exporter of spices like cardamom, turmeric, and vanilla, is dedicated to the development and implementation of stringent quality standards to enhance global trade practices and ensure consumer safety,” Rao stated.
Support for Broader Food Safety Measures
In addition to spices, India also endorsed the development of standards for named vegetable oils, guidelines for controlling Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli (STEC), and the safe use and reuse of water in food production and processing. These measures are critical for safeguarding public health and promoting sustainability in the food industry.
Focus on Recycled Materials in Food Packaging
Reflecting a strong commitment to environmental sustainability, India championed the proposal for developing Codex guidelines on food safety considerations related to the use of recycled materials in food packaging. This initiative aligns with global efforts to tackle climate change and environmental protection.
India shared its successful experience with FSSAI’s guidelines on recycling post-consumer PET for food contact applications. These guidelines, aimed at promoting the safe use of recycled materials, received positive feedback from committee members and highlighted India’s leadership in integrating sustainability with food safety.
A Commitment to Global Food Standards
India’s active engagement in the Codex Alimentarius Commission demonstrates its dedication to establishing robust food safety standards and fostering fair practices in the international food trade. The country’s contributions to the development of global food guidelines underscore its pivotal role in the international food industry.
As the global community faces increasing challenges related to food safety, climate change, and sustainability, India’s leadership in advocating for stringent quality standards and innovative solutions is crucial. The country’s efforts at the CAC session in Rome are a testament to its ongoing commitment to global food safety and quality.