
Overview of CAC47 Outcomes
From November 25 to December 1, 2024, the Codex Alimentarius Commission met in the picturesque city of Geneva, Switzerland.
Delegates gathered to review and decide on a variety of documents put forward by the Commission’s technical and regional committees over the previous year.
The outcomes of the 47th session were pivotal, focusing on standards for diverse food products, including spices, herbs, oils (such as avocado and olive), sardines, and fruit juices.
A significant aspect of CAC47 was the establishment of maximum permissible levels for various contaminants, food additives, flavorings, and residues from pesticides and veterinary drugs.
The session also emphasized best practices in food hygiene and labeling, addressing issues related to allergens and the burgeoning realm of e-commerce.
Key Developments in Food Standards
One of the most notable approvals during this session was for the development of a collective standard for whole millet grains.
This initiative prompted the Codex Committee on Cereals, Pulses, and Legumes to be reactivated.
Additionally, delegates adopted a new Strategic Plan that spans from 2026 to 2031, paired with routine budget discussions.
Leadership shifts occurred as well, with the Commission welcoming new vice-chairs: Khalid Al Zhrani from Saudi Arabia and Jing Tian from China.
Following two rounds of voting, Betul Vazgecer from Türkiye was elected, while Dr. Allen Azegele from Kenya assumed the role of Chairperson, succeeding Dr. Steve Wearne from the UK.
The session also marked Australia’s selection as the new representative for the South West Pacific, replacing Vanuatu, and announced fresh host countries for three Regional Coordination Committees—Japan taking on Asia, Uruguay overseeing Latin America and the Caribbean, and Oman managing the Near East, while Germany continued to lead Europe.
Commitment to Food Safety and Labeling Standards
The session featured a review of updated commodity standards, particularly for various spices and oils like dried small cardamom and Sacha inchi oil.
Notably, the guidelines for food allergen labeling underwent a significant update—the first comprehensive revision since 1985.
CAC47 also introduced new hygiene protocols aimed at reducing the risk of contamination from pathogenic E. coli, highlighting the importance of using safe water in milk processing and maintaining hygiene in traditional markets.
Guidelines addressing ciguatera poisoning linked to specific fish species were another key outcome.
In terms of contaminants, the session set new maximum limits for lead in several food categories, while also approving updates to the General Standard for Food Additives (GSFA).
Specific provisions were put in place for standardized items like pickles and jams, alongside clarified specifications for identity and purity linked to food additives and flavorings.
The discussion about pesticide residues bore fruit as well, with new maximum residue levels (MRLs) established for multiple pesticides.
The Commission took into account concerns from the EU and other nations regarding certain residue levels, marking a first by extrapolating MRLs for finfish and ruminants based on specific standards.
When it came to olive oil, CAC47 adopted revised standards after extensive dialogue with producing nations.
These adjustments included new guidelines concerning α-desmethylsterols composition and initiated data collection efforts related to olive oil.
Labeling standards for dried saffron products were also proposed, though some countries raised concerns about finalizing these standards due to unresolved elements.
To address these, a pathway for intersessional work was initiated, promising further dialogue in the future.
The session provided clarity surrounding safety concerns related to aspartame, reaffirming established acceptable daily intake levels backed by rigorous scientific evaluation.
Similarly, the status of titanium dioxide was clarified, emphasizing that there are no health concerns connected to its intake as it remains “not specified” for its ADI.
Advancements were made in drafting texts for various food standards and hygiene practices, as well as sampling plans for contaminants in spices.
New work proposals for establishing standards for young children’s foods and the applicability of food labeling during emergencies received enthusiastic support.
Efforts to amend standards related to fats, oils, food additives, and labeling provisions for infant formula also took place.
Meanwhile, CAC47 decided to discontinue several draft proposals concerning food additives and pesticide maximum levels.
Looking forward, the Commission outlined its strategic framework for 2026-2031, enhancing its vision to promote global unity in the development of food safety standards.
This strategic plan strongly reaffirms the Commission’s dedication to consumer health and equitable practices in international food trade.
Four primary goals were identified, each linked to specific outcomes designed to steer the Commission’s focus in the years ahead.
Source: Natlawreview.com