At its latest session, the Codex Alimentarius Commission made significant strides in global food safety by adopting new standards and guidelines. Among the notable decisions, guidelines on the control of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) were introduced to aid risk managers and food businesses in mitigating foodborne diseases, with a focus on raw beef, raw milk, and raw milk cheeses. Work is ongoing for similar guidelines concerning fresh leafy vegetables and sprouts.

Another crucial development involved guidelines on water use, advocating a risk-based approach for safe water sourcing in various aspects of food production. These guidelines provide producers with a framework to reduce and manage hazards associated with water in the production and processing of food.

In response to the growing trend of remote audits and inspections, the Codex Alimentarius Commission introduced guidelines outlining seven principles. These principles aim to serve as the foundation for conducting effective remote audits within regulatory frameworks, streamlining planning and implementation processes.

Additionally, a code of practice related to cassava and cassava-based products was established. This code provides governments and food businesses with essential knowledge on preventing mycotoxin contamination, contributing to improved safety in the cassava supply chain.

While these developments signify progress in global food safety standards, a controversial vote took place on the adoption of Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) for zilpaterol hydrochloride in cattle liver, kidney, and muscle. The vote resulted in 88 countries in favor, 49 against, and 11 abstentions. The European Union, where the use of growth promoters is not allowed, expressed regret, and China criticized the adoption process, citing concerns about consensus and negotiation principles.

Looking ahead, the Codex Alimentarius Commission identified future focus areas. In 2024, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) will work on guidance for the implementation of marine biotoxins monitoring. Reports on common frauds in the fisheries and aquaculture sector, the food safety aspects of precision fermentation, and guidelines for food hygiene control measures in traditional markets are expected to be released in the coming year.

However, efforts to establish maximum levels for total aflatoxins in paprika, ginger, black and white pepper, and turmeric, as well as for ochratoxin A in the latter three products, were halted.

These decisions underscore the Codex Alimentarius Commission’s commitment to enhancing food safety globally, even as international differences in approach and regulation persist.

Source:https://www.fao.org/fao-who-codexalimentarius/news-and-events/news-details/en/c/1671479/