India Supports Global Standards for Spices, Vegetable Oils at Food Trade Conference

By siliconindia  |  Wednesday, 03 July 2024, 06:32:46 PM IST

India Supports Global Standards for Spices, Vegetable Oils at Food Trade Conference
India has actively supported the establishment of global standards for spices and vegetable oils during the 86th session of the Executive Committee (CCEXEC) of the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC), the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW).
Held at the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) headquarters in Rome from July 1-5, the CCEXEC session is pivotal in reviewing proposals for new standards and monitoring the development of existing ones. The CAC, a joint initiative by the FAO and the World Health Organization (WHO), aims to ensure consumer health protection and fairness in food trade.
India, represented by G. Kamala Vardhana Rao, CEO of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), emphasized the importance of advancing standards for spices such as small cardamom, turmeric, and vanilla. "This initiative is particularly significant for India, a major producer and exporter of these spices, as it facilitates smoother international trade", stated the MoHFW.
In addition to supporting spice standards, India advocated for the development of guidelines for named vegetable oils and the control of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli. The country also endorsed the safe use and reuse of water in food production and processing, and the creation of Codex guidance on food safety concerning recycled materials in food packaging. "These measures are crucial for addressing global challenges such as climate change, environmental protection, and sustainability", the ministry emphasized.
During the session, India also shared its insights on the FSSAI guidelines for recycling post-consumer PET for food contact applications. This participation highlights India's commitment to robust food safety standards and promoting equitable practices in global food trade.
“India’s involvement in the High-level Executive Committee (CCEXEC) underscores its dedication to establishing effective food safety measures and reflects its significant role in the international food industry”, the ministry noted.
India’s stance at the CCEXEC session aims to align with global efforts to enhance food safety and trade practices, reinforcing its leadership position in the international food sector.

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