Codex Alimentarius Commission Adopts International Standards for Three Spices

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Why in News

The **Codex Alimentarius Commission** adopted new international quality standards for **large cardamom**, **coriander**, and **vanilla** during its **49th Session** in **Geneva, Switzerland**.

These standards hold special importance for **India** because it is a top producer and exporter of **large cardamom** and **coriander**, while the **vanilla** framework helps build global consumer trust and product uniformity.

**India** has chaired the **Codex Committee on Spices and Culinary Herbs (CCSCH)** since its creation in **2014**, with the **Spices Board of India** managing its secretariat.
**India** became the **Co-Chair** of a new **Electronic Working Group** focused on risk analysis for new food items, showing its growing expertise in global food safety rules.
During debates on the **Codex Strategic Plan 2026-2031**, **India** advocated for **SMART** (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) performance metrics.

The **Codex Alimentarius**, also known as the **Food Code**, contains international rules covering food safety, additives, pesticide levels, labeling, and quality checks.
The **Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures (SPS) Agreement** under the **World Trade Organization (WTO)** uses **Codex** rules as benchmark standards to resolve global trade disputes.

Formed in **1963** by the **FAO** and **WHO**, the **Codex Alimentarius Commission** sets global food rules to protect public health and ensure fair trade, comprising **189 members** with **India** joining in **1964**.
The **CAC** serves as the primary body for running the joint **FAO** and **WHO** international food standards initiative.

The **CCEXEC** directs administrative management, long-term strategic plans, and standard creation for the **CAC**.
**India** holds a seat on the **CCEXEC** as the official **Regional Coordinator for Asia (CCASIA)**.