Draft Amendments to the International Numbering System for Food Additives
201. The Commission was informed that proposed amendments to the International Numbering System (INS) (Appendix IV, ALINORM 93/12 and Appendix VI, ALINORM 93/12A) were being forward to the Commission for adoption.
202. It was noted that the International Numbering System (INS) for Food Additives had been published in Volume 1 of the Codex Alimentarius (General Requirements - Section 5.1), and that amendments to the INS were considered by the Committee at each of its meetings based on the recommendations of an informal working group. It was stressed that the INS was used for ingredient labelling purposes only and did not imply that a toxicological evaluation for those additives listed had been undertaken by JECFA. Criteria for the inclusion of a food additive on the list (para. 90, ALINORM 91/12) were also highlighted.
203. To facilitate its discussions, the Commission agreed to discuss the status of processed eucheuma seaweed, as well as calcium behenate, separately from other proposed amendments.
Processed Eucheuma Seaweed
204. The Commission was informed that the Committee proposed to assign number 426 to processed eucheuma seaweed as a thickener and stabilizer, while noting that governments would have the opportunity to comment on this recommendation in the future (para. 70, ALINORM 93/12A). It was noted that JECFA had established a specification as well as a temporary Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for this compound at its 41st Session. It was also stated that the specifications for additives established by the 41st JECFA, including the specification for processed eucheuma seaweed, would be discussed at the 26th Session of the Codex Committee on Food Additives and Contaminants through its Working Group on Specifications.
205. The Delegation of the Philippines noted that JECFA had endorsed the safety of processed eucheuma seaweed by establishing a temporary ADI, with the condition for additional review of data in 1995. In view of the current temporary ADI status for processed eucheuma seaweed, the Delegation of the Philippines, supported by many other delegations, suggested that an INS number should not be assigned pending the future JECFA review. The Delegation of the Philippines suggested that the issue should be returned to the Codex Committee on Food Additives and Contaminants for consideration.
206. The Observer of the World Seaweed Producers Association (MARINALG International) highlighted comments submitted in regard to this issue and summarized in document CAC/LIM 3 (ALINORM 93/39-Add. 1). As a result of these observations, it was suggested by the Observer of MARINALG that the Commission should assign INS number 426 to processed eucheuma seaweed as recommended by the Codex Committee on Food Additives and Contaminants. The Delegation of the Philippines did not agree with the MARINALG observations.
207. In view of these discussions, the Commission agreed that an INS number should not be assigned to processed eucheuma seaweed pending the reexamination of this issue at the 26th Session of the Codex Committee on Food Additives and Contaminants through its Working Groups on Specifications and on the International Numbering System. It was also agreed that JECFA would be informed of this decision.
Calcium Behenate
208. The Commission was informed that the Committee had agreed to assign INS number 275 to calcium behenate based on its use as a preservative (Number Series 200).
209. The Delegation of Germany was of the opinion that calcium behenate should not be listed under the INS technological functional category of preservatives, as it should more appropriately be assigned to the INS category of thickeners, stabilizers and emulsifiers (Number Series 400).
210. The Commission agreed that INS number 275 for calcium behenate should be sent back to the Codex Committee on Food Additives and Contaminants for reexamination.
Status of Amendments to the International Numbering System for Food Additives
211. The Commission adopted the amendments to the INS as contained in Appendix IV of ALINORM 93/12 and Appendix VI of ALINORM 93/12A at Step 8, with the exception of proposals for processed eucheuma seaweed and calcium behenate. This decision was taken with the understanding that amendments to the list would remain as a standing agenda item for the Committee.
Consideration of the Draft Preamble to the Codex General Standard on Food Additives
212. The Commission was informed that the Committee had decided to forward the revised Preamble to the proposed draft General Standard on Food Additives (Appendix II, ALINORM 93/12A) to the Commission for adoption at Step 5. The Committee also agreed that Schedules 1 and 2 and Annex A of the General Standard would be revised and circulated for comments at Step 3 prior to its next session (paras. 27–49, ALINORM 93/12A).
213. The Delegation of Brazil objected that the list of food additives in the General Standard were limited to those compounds evaluated by JECFA, and did not take toxicological evaluations performed by non-JECFA bodies into account and excluded additives in regional use and those which, because of their historical use, had never been evaluated by JECFA.
Status of the Proposed Draft Preamble to the Codex General Standard for Food Additives
214. The Commission, while agreeing with the decision of the Committee to use a step-by-step approach in the elaboration of the General Standard, emphasized the importance and priority placed on its future development.
215. The Commission agreed to adopt the Preamble to the Codex General Standard for Food Additives (Appendix II, ALINORM 93/12A) at Step 5.
216. The Commission was informed that the Committee had agreed to forward a proposed draft provisional guideline level of [5 μg/kg] for aflatoxin B1 in supplementary feedingstuffs for milkproducing animals (Appendix VII, ALINORM 93/12A) for adoption at Step 5.
217. A majority of delegations was opposed to the adoption of the provisional guideline level as proposed, as it was noted that a realistic and practical limit based on sound science and economic considerations was required. It was also stated that the correlation between aflatoxin B1 in supplementary feedingstuffs and aflatoxin M1 in milk was clearly linked and therefore, the two levels (i.e. M1 and B1) should be discussed together. The need for levels for international trade in supplementary feedingstuffs was also questioned, as it was stated that such trade was normally in raw feed materials.
218. It was also stated that the results of a recently held FAO Consultation on Sampling Plans for Aflatoxins as well as the pending elaboration of the Codex General Standard for Contaminants and paper on the status of science in Codex Procedures should be examined by the Codex Committee on Food Additives and Contaminants and the Codex Committee on Cereals, Pulses and Legumes before a final decision was taken. The Commission was also informed of an upcoming Canadian paper being prepared for consideration by the Committee which would examine the use of Good Agricultural Practice in the reduction of aflatoxin contamination.
219. Other delegations supported the proposed draft provisional guideline level as being based on sound science, as evidenced in part by the inclusion of a similar value in European Community legislation. It was stated that the Correlation between aflatoxin B1 in supplementary feedingstuffs and aflatoxin M1 in milk was already clearly established. As the opposition to the adoption of the proposal was perceived to be a problem of risk analysis and management, it was suggested that the issue could be examined by the Codex Committee on General Principles.
220. The Commission decided to return the proposed draft provisional guideline level to the Codex Committee on Food Additives and Contaminants for reexamination at Step 3, with the understanding that an examination of problems in international trade and risk analysis aspects would be undertaken. It was also agreed that the Codex Committee on General Principles could examine this issue in a general sense when discussing the use of science in Codex procedures.
Guideline Levels for Methylmercury in Fish
221. The Commission was informed that those levels adopted for methylmercury in fish at its 19th Session were published in Volume 1 of the Codex Alimentarius (section 6.2 - General Requirements). However, the 24th Session of the Codex Committee on Food Additives and Contaminants indicated that the guideline levels applied to total mercury as opposed to methylmercury (paras. 102–105, ALINORM 93/12). This revised proposal was submitted to the Commission for its consideration.
Status of the Guideline Levels for Methylmercury in Fish
222. The Commission decided to maintain the current guideline levels for methylmercury in fish as previously adopted, while recommending that the establishment of corresponding guideline levels for total mercury in fish be considered by the Committee at its next meeting.
Proposed Draft General Standard for Contaminants in Foods
223. The Commission was informed that the Committee had decided to prepare the above proposed draft standard for circulation and government comment at the earliest opportunity and based on the Committee's discussions (paras. 103–115, ALINORM 93/12A).
224. The Commission agreed with this procedure.
Other Matters arising from the Reports of the 24th and 25th Sessions of the Committee
Future Work
225. The Commission approved of the Committee's Programme of Future work, as summarized in paragraph 174 of ALINORM 93/12A.
226. The Commission also noted that the second sentence in the English version of paragraph 101 in ALINORM 93/12A (report of the 25th Session of the Codex Committee on Food Additives and Contaminants) retained a reference to chloropropanol which had been deleted by the Committee. The sentence should be amended to read as follows:
“In view of this recommendation, the Committee agreed that the Chairman/Secretariat of the Codex Committee on Soups and Broths should be informed accordingly.”
227. The Commission confirmed under Rule IX.10 that the Codex Committee on Food Additives and Contaminants should continue under the Chairmanship of The Netherlands.
CODEX COMMITTEE ON FOOD HYGIENE (Agenda Item 25)
228. The Commission had before it the reports of the 25th and 26th Sessions of the Committee presented in ALINORM 93/13 and ALINORM 93/13A, which were introduced by Dr. Douglas D. Archer, Chairman of the Committee.
Draft General Provisions Relating to Food Hygiene in Codex Standards (ALINORM 93/13, Appendix II)
229. The Commission noted that the General Provisions provided simplified reference to the General Principles of Food Hygiene and other Codes of Practice and that the Committee had recommended their inclusion in new standards or revised standards as they were republished.
Status of the Draft General Provisions Relating to Food Hygiene in Codex Standards
230. The Commission adopted the Draft General Provisions at Step 8 of the Procedure, for inclusion in Codex standards whenever possible.
Draft Code of Hygienic Practice for Pre-cooked and Cooked Foods in Mass Catering (ALINORM 93/13, Appendix III)
231. The Commission was informed that the Committee had agreed not to include raw foods in the scope of the Code, which was already in an advanced stage of elaboration and to discuss the feasibility of a separate Code for raw foods at a later date.
Status of the Draft Code of Hygienic Practice for Pre-cooked and Cooked Foods in Mass Catering
232. The Commission agreed to adopt the Draft Code at Step 8 of the Procedure.
Draft Code of Hygienic Practice for Aseptically Processed and Packaged Low-Acid Foods (ALINORM 93/13A, Appendix III)
233. The Commission noted that the Committee had amended the Scope to indicate that the document should apply only to low-acid foods which had a water activity (aw) greater than 0.85.
Status of the Draft Code of Hygienic Practice for Aseptically Processed and Packaged Low-Acid Foods
234. The Commission adopted the Draft Code at Step 8 of the Procedure.
235. Following the endorsement of the Scope of the Code of Hygienic Practice for Aseptically Processed and Packaged Low-Acid Foods, the Commission endorsed a consequential amendment to the Scope of the Recommended International Code of Hygienic Practice for Low-Acid and Acidified Low-Acid Canned Foods.
Draft Guidelines Procedures for the Visual Inspection of Lots of Canned Foods (ALINORM 93/13, Appendix IV)
236. The Commission was informed that the Committee had agreed to propose the adoption of the Guidelines at Step 8, as it had been considered in detail and general consensus had been reached.
Status of the Draft Guidelines Procedures for the Visual Inspection of Lots of Canned Foods
237. The Commission adopted the Draft Guidelines at Step 8 with the omission of Step 6 and 7 of the Procedure.
Proposed Draft Guidelines for the Application of the Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) System (ALINORM 93/13A, Appendix II)
238. Some delegations expressed the view that the fourth paragraph of the Preamble referring to the possible use of HACCP for quality applications should be deleted, as the system applied only to food safety aspects. The Observer from IFGMA expressed its satisfaction that the HACCP System, which had been developed by the food industry and was now widely used, should be recognized at the level of Codex, as it represented a significant contribution to the safety of consumers. However, he was of the opinion that the reference to food quality should be deleted as HACCP was solely concerned with safety and other internationally recognized systems such as ISO 9000 appropriately dealt with quality matters. The Observer from CIAA, while supporting the Guidelines, was of the view that the reference to quality should be deleted. It was also noted that the Secretariat had contacted ISO to obtain its views on the compatibility of the document with ISO 9000, as requested by the Committee, and had been informed that in principle there appeared to be no conflict with the ISO 9000 texts.
239. The Chairman of the Committee informed the Commission that the development of HACCP Guidelines was regarded as a matter of high priority and it had been agreed that contact with ISO should not hold up its progress. It had also been agreed that paragraph 4 referred only to a possibility and was in no way mandatory. The Commission agreed to retain paragraph 4 as a footnote.
240. The Delegation of Tanzania, supported by Algeria, expressed the view that guidance was needed for the practical application of the HACCP System, and that efforts should be made in this direction, especially at the regional level for the benefit of developing countries.
241. The WHO Joint Session Secretary drew the attention of the Commission to a recent WHO Consultation on HACCP during which the Codex Draft Guidelines for the Application of the HACCP System had been reviewed in depth by some of the world's most experienced HACCP specialists. They had come to the conclusion that the text needed further improvement. Therefore, he felt that the Commission might wish to request the Committee to revise the text in view of the review by the WHO consultant prior to its adoption at Step 8. The Chairman of the Committee, however, felt that Codex Guidelines for the Application of the HACCP System were urgently needed and any further improvement of the text could be made when the text was incorporated into the Revised General Principles of Food Hygiene.
242. Taking into consideration the detailed revision of the document by the previous sessions of the Committee and the importance of this matter, the Commission adopted the Draft Guidelines at Step 8 with the omission of Steps 6 and 7 of the Procedure.
Proposed Draft Code of Hygienic Practice for Spices and Condiments (ALINORM 93/13A, Appendix V)
243. The Commission noted that the Scope of the Code had been limited to dried spices and condiments and blends thereof, as these were the main subject of public health concern, and that specific government comments had been requested on the necessity of microbiological specifications for treated spices.
Status of the Proposed Draft Code of Hygienic Practice for Spices and Condiments
244. The Commission adopted the Draft Code at Step 5 of the Procedure.
Terms of Reference of the Committee
245. The Committee had agreed to the technical amendment of its terms of reference proposed by the Committee on General Principles. The Commission adopted the amendment as contained in ALINORM 93/13A, para. 12.
Other matters arising from the Reports of the 25th and 26th Sessions of the Committee
Draft Revised General Principles of Food Hygiene
246. The Commission was informed that there was general consensus on the approach taken in the Draft Revised Principles and that it was returned to Step 3 of the Procedure to be completed under the direction of the United Kingdom and considered at the next session of the Committee. The Commission noted that the HACCP approach would be incorporated in the Revised General Principles.
Proposed Draft Code of Practice for Refrigerated Packaged Foods with Extended Shelf-Life
247. The Committee decided to return the Proposed Draft Code to Step 3 of the Procedure for further redrafting, as it appeared that major amendments would be required, especially in relation with the re-evaluation of the Scope.
Street Foods
248. The Committee had considered the Proposed Draft Regional Codes elaborated by the regions of Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean, had recognized that a general or global model code was inappropriate, as could be regional codes, and had invited the Coordinating Committees to reconsider their approach to determine whether regional codes in their present form were actually needed, as it was felt that the establishment of detailed codes should be left to local authorities in the countries concerned. Such codes could be developed with the help of a revised version of the WHO document on Essential Safety Requirements for Street-vended Foods.
249. The Delegation of Tanzania noted that in this perspective, guidelines would be necessary to develop the relevant codes and the Chairman of the Committee pointed out that the WHO “Essential Safety Requirements for Street-Vended Foods” was one of the references which could be used to this effect. The Delegation of Malaysia offered the Draft Regional Code of Hygienic Practice for Street-Vended Foods for Asia for use as a reference in this Region, taking into account the advice of the Committee on Food Hygiene, as well as the WHO document.
Proposed Draft Code of Hygienic Practice for Uncured/Unripened Cheese and Ripened Soft Cheese (ALINORM 93/13A, Appendix IV)
250. The Commission was informed that the Committee had considered a revised document incorporating the HACCP approach and including special provisions for cheese made with raw milk, and had agreed to circulate it for comments at Step 3 of the Procedure.
Medical examination of food handlers
251. Following the recommendations of the WHO Consultation on Health Surveillance and Management Procedures for Food Handling Personnel with regard to pre-employment examination, the Committee had agreed that the current text of the General Principles of Food Hygiene was consistent with the recommendations as it allowed for different national legislations. However, the language used in some other codes differed from the General Principles Code and needed to be amended accordingly.
Microbiological Specifications for Quick Frozen Cooked Crab Meat
252. The Committee had endorsed the specifications as proposed by the Committee on Fish and Fishery Products. The Delegation of Switzerland expressed the view that enterobacteriaceae were appropriate microbiological criteria to indicate both incomplete heat treatment and post-processing contamination.
Microbiological Criteria
253. The Committee had agreed that the existing Principles for the Establishment and Application of Microbiological Criteria for Foods should be revised, as well as current microbilogical specifications in Codex Codes, as some of these were out of date and as the new concepts such as HACCP should be taken into account. It was therefore decided that the Secretariat should prepare a discussion paper in cooperation with ICMSF for consideration by the next session of the Committee.
Listeria monocytogenes
254. The Commission had noted that there was insufficient data and inadequate scientific consensus to reach a conclusion about maximum levels for L. monocytogenes in foods for application at the international level. It was however, agreed that the HACCP approach should be preferred and that consumer education should be developed. The Committee agreed to request specific proposals for consensus on international control measures for this pathogen and information on measures taken at the national level, for consideration by its next session.
255. The Commission confirmed under Rule IX.10 that the Committee on Food Hygiene would continue under the Chairmanship of the Government of the United States.
CODEX COMMITTEE ON METHODS OF ANALYSIS AND SAMPLING (Agenda Item 26)
256. The Commission had before it the Report of the 18th Session of the Codex Committee on Methods of Analysis and Sampling (ALINORM 93/23). The report was introduced by Dr. Maria Varardi (Hungary) on behalf of the Chairman of the Committee, Professor Peter Biacs.
New terms of reference of the Committee (ALINORM 93/23 paras. 28–33)
257. The Committee had recommended the adoption of its terms of reference as reported in paragraph 30 of the report of the Committee. It was emphasized that the proposed Terms of Reference were in line with the recommendations of the 19th Session of the Commission that and they had been endorsed by the Committee on General Principles.
258. The Delegation of France questioned whether the Codex Committee on Methods of Analysis and Sampling should define protocols for food laboratory proficiency. It was clarified that the specific mandate of the Codex Committee on Methods of Analysis and Sampling, working in collaboration with other bodies, would be to endorse procedures and protocols developed by specialized organizations and intended as international procedures for the verification of provisions in Codex standards.
259. The Commission adopted the new terms of reference as proposed by the Committee.
Draft Codex General Guidelines on Sampling (ALINORM 93/23 paras. 20–27)
260. The Committee had proposed that draft Codex General Guidelines on Sampling should be prepared before the Committee's next Session in order to provide an advisory text for sampling plans, which could be used by importing and exporting countries to control commodities moving in international trade. The Delegation of Poland supported by Sweden emphasized the importance of these Guidelines and the need for and expert consultation in this matter as suggested by the Committee. They noted that notable work had been developed for many years by the Codex Committee on Methods of Analysis and Sampling, however sampling plans were not yet available for Codex Standards.
261. The Commission endorsed the elaboration of these Guidelines.
Checklist of information required and guidelines to evaluate methods of analysis (ALINORM 93/23 paras. 34–39 and Appendices II and III)
262. The Committee had revised the former Checklist and made a number of changes and was requesting the final adoption of these texts by the Commission for publication in Volume 13 of the Codex Alimentarius.
263. Written comments were received from Australia as reported in document CAC/LIM 3 (1993), calling attention to a small inconsistency between the text of the Checklist and the Precision Criteria. The Delegation of China also questioned the method of removal of outliers in the document and referred that from its point of view some error had been included in the example attached to the text.
264. The Commission adopted the proposed texts and requested the Committee to clarify the points made by Australia and China to the next meeting of the Executive Committee, so that the text may be published as soon as possible.
Other Matters arising from the Report of the 18th Session of the Committee
Cooperation with IUPAC (ALINORM 93/23 paras. 34–39 and 53–57)
265. The Commission noted the work developed with the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) on the Protocol for the Design, Conduct and Interpretation of Method Performance Studies and on the definition of Limit of Determination and welcomed this cooperation.
Laboratory Proficiency Testing (ALINORM 93/23 paras. 47)
266. The Delegation of Finland emphasized the importance of this area in the system of certification where the accreditation of laboratories covered an important role. The Commission agreed that this was a priority area associated with food inspection and certification systems.
Classification of Codex methods (ALINORM 93/23 para. 68)
267. The Committee had agreed to clarify the area of procedures related to the endorsement of methods and their classification, taking into consideration that an exhaustive document would be prepared on this topic for the next Session of the Committee.
268. The Commission endorsed the approach taken by the Committee and indicated that this work must be undertaken within the framework of the Codex Procedure.
General Methods of Analysis for Contaminants (ALINORM 93/23 paras. 70–81)
269. The Commission noted that general methods of analysis for contaminants were under revision, indicated that this work was of high priority and expressed the hope that a suitable final text would be available for consideration at Step 8 by the 21st Session of the Commission.
270. The Commission confirmed under Rule IX.10 that the Codex Committee on Methods of Analysis and Sampling should continue under the Chairmanship of the Government of Hungary.
CODEX COMMITTEE ON FOOD IMPORT AND EXPORT INSPECTION AND CERTIFICATION SYSTEMS (Agenda Item 27)
271. The Commission had for its consideration the report of the First Session of the Codex Committee on Food Import and Export Inspection and Certification Systems (ALINORM 93/30), which was presented by the Chairman of the Committee, Mr. Digby Gascoine (Australia). The Commission also noted that government comments requested (CL 1992/26-FICS) on issues arising from the Committee were summarized in document CAC/LIM 3 (ALINORM 93/39-Add. 1).
Terms of Reference of the Committee
272. The Commission was informed that the Committee drafted Terms of Reference which were now submitted to the Commission for adoption (Appendix II, ALINORM 93/30).
273. After considering extensive comments on the draft Terms of Reference as proposed, the Commission decided to form a drafting group consisting of representatives from Australia, Belgium, Malaysia and Sweden to revise the draft Terms of Reference based on these discussions.
274. The Commission adopted the following terms of reference for the Codex Committee on Food Import and Export Inspection and Certification Systems as a compromise solution based on the drafting group proposals.
To develop principles and guidelines for food import and export inspection and certification systems with a view to harmonising methods and procedures which protect the health of consumers, ensure fair trading practices and facilitate international trade in foodstuffs.
To develop principles and guidelines for the application of measures by the competent authorities of exporting and importing countries to provide assurance where necessary that foodstuffs comply with requirements, especially statutory health requirements.
To develop guidelines for the utilisation, as and when appropriate, of quality assurance systems1 to ensure that foodstuffs conform with requirements and to promote the recognition of these systems in facilitating trade in food products under bilateral/multilateral arrangements by countries.
To develop guidelines and criteria with respect to format, declarations and language of such official certificates as countries may require with a view towards international harmonization.
To make recommendations for information exchange in relation to food import/export control.
To consult as necessary with other international groups working on matters related to food inspection and certification systems.
To consider other matters assigned to it by the Commission in relation to food inspection and certification systems.
Consideration of Draft General Principles for Food Import and Export Inspection and Certification
275. The Commission was informed that in view of the extensive discussions held at the first Session of the Codex Committee on Food Import and Export Inspection and Certification Systems (paras. 42–51, ALINORM 93/30) when drafting the above principles, and in consideration of the importance of these matters to its future work, it had been decided to submit this item, along with comments received (CL 1992/26-FICS), directly to the Commission so that they would be adopted at the earliest opportunity.
276. Many delegations were of the opinion that the General Principles (Appendix III, ALINORM 93/30) should be returned to the Committee for additional discussions and clarification on such issues as the application of equivalence principles in practice; differences between mandatory and voluntary application; private and government inspection systems; definitions for inspection, certification and control; enhancement of mutual confidence in inspection/control systems between importers and exporters; differences between inspection and verification; and, the role of consumers and the developing world. The importance of promoting trade, protecting consumers, and the publishing of timely information on rejections and detentions of products were also noted.
Status of the General Principles for Food Import and Export Inspection and Certification
277. In view of the above concerns, the Commission agreed that the proposed draft General Principles should be circulated for additional government comments at Step 3 for reconsideration by the Second Session of the Codex Committee on Food Import and Export Inspection and Certification Systems at Step 4. In view of the importance of the principles to the Committee's future work, it was noted that the omission of Steps 6 and 7 could be considered by the 21st Session of the Commission when adopting the Principles at Step 5.
Future Programme of Work of the Committee
278. The Commission was informed that the Committee had agreed to consider those items listed in Appendix IV to its report, with the understanding that for the time being all of these matters would be of equal priority. The Commission was reminded that at its Nineteenth session it had decided that it would be essential to review the need for the Committee's continuing activity after two sessions (ALINORM 91/40, para 84). As the Committee had recognized that this programme of work would more than likely occupy it for more than one future session, it had been decided that this situation should be brought to the attention of the Commission (para. 76, ALINORM 93/30).
279. In discussing the Committee's future programme of work, some delegations were of the opinion that the Committee should focus on a few selected items and that in any case, the items for consideration should be prioritized. Many delegations, recognizing the importance of the Committee's work to both the developed and developing world, felt that the Committee should continue its future activities for several more meetings under the direction of the Commission. The future role of the Committee in responding to the concerns of the Commission regarding the above General Principles was also stressed.
280. The Commission agreed that the Codex Committee on Food Import and Export Inspection and Certification Systems should continue to meet in the future, with the understanding that it should exercise caution in setting its programme of work.
Confirmation of Chairmanship of the Committee
281. The Commission confirmed under Rule IX.10 that the Codex Committee on Food Import and Export Inspection and Certification Systems should continue to be under the Chairmanship of the Government of Australia.
CODEX COMMITTEE ON NUTRITION AND FOODS FOR SPECIAL DIETARY USES (Agenda Item 28)
282. The Commission had before it ALINORM 93/26, the report of the 18th Session, for discussion. The report was introduced by the Chairman of the Committee, Professor Arpad Somogyi of Germany. The Chairman of the Committee stressed growing concern over nutrition, both malnutrition and over nutrition, in the world. The Commission noted that the Committee had reviewed the nutritional considerations in the work of the Codex Alimentarius Commission based on the paper prepared by a Canadian Consultant.
283. The Delegation of Tunisia informed the Commission of the situation in his country concerning medical food and supplements of some minerals.
Consideration of the Proposed Draft Standard for Formula Foods for Use in Very Low Energy Diets for Weight Recution at Step 5 (ALINORM 93/26, Appendix II)
284. The Chairman of the Committee informed the Commission that the Committee had agreed, after lengthy discussion, to advance the Proposed Draft Standard for Formula Foods for Use in Very Low Energy Diets to the Commission for adoption at Step 5.
285. Some delegations, while not opposing the adoption of the Proposed Draft Standard, expressed their concern over the definition of formula foods for use in very low energy diets; whether it was a medical food or a normal food. However, several delegations were of the opinion that potential adverse effects might be seen even after short term use of a very low energy diet without standard or medical supervision and supported the adoption of the Proposed Draft Standard as a medical food to be used only under medical supervision.
286. The Delegation of China proposed to add a new section, “Reference”, which collects all related standards, codes of practice and guidelines with assigned numbers.
Status of the Proposed Draft Standard
287. The Commission adopted the Proposed Draft Standard for Formula Foods for Use in Very Low Energy Diets for Weight Reduction at Step 5.
Other Matters arising from the Report of the 18th Session of the Committee
Proposed Amendment to the Terms of Reference of the Committee (ALINORM 93/26, para. 24)
288. The Commission was informed that the Committee had agreed to delete the phrase “and where specifically referred to the Committee” from the last indent of Terms of Reference in the Procedural Manual with a view to strengthening the horizontal work of the Committee.
289. The Commission amended the Committee's Terms of Reference as proposed and requested the Secretariat to draft new simplified Terms of Reference for the consideration of the next Session of the Committee.
Proposal for a Revision of the Standard for Gluten-Free Foods (ALINORM 93/26, para. 83)
290. The Chairman of the Committee informed the Commission of the intention of the Committee to revise the Standard for Gluten-Free Foods in the light of recent developments in the methods of determination and the chemical definition of gluten and human intolerance to it, such as Coeliac disease.
291. The Observer of the Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC) offered to submit a new method of analysis of gliadin in food to the Committee for consideration at its next Session.
292. The Commission endorsed the proposal to revise the Standard for Gluten-Free Foods.
Vitamin and Mineral Supplements (ALINORM 93/26, para. 98–106)
293. The Commission noted that the Committee, at its 18th Session, had considered the Guidelines for Dietary Supplements with Special Reference to Vitamins and Minerals. The Guidelines would be further considered by the Committee taking into account recent research information on vitamins and minerals and the fact that more and more supplementary products were available on the market.
294. The Observer of AOAC informed the Commission that an AOAC Manual containing methods of sampling and analysis of vitamins and minerals for use for nutrition labelling purposes would be available in September.
Appendix on Salt Iodization to the Standard for Food Grade Salt (ALINORM 93/26, para. 56)
295. The Chairman of the Committee, while stressing the importance of salt iodization for the prevention of iodine deficiency, informed that at its next session the Committee would consider a draft Appendix prepared by Germany. It was noted that the Codex Committee on Food Additives and Contaminants would be consulted in the preparation of the Appendix.
Proposed Conditions for Descriptors of Claims for Nutrient Content (ALINORM 93/26, paras. 57–76 and Appendix III)
296. The Commission was informed that the Committee, at its 18th Session, had discussed the upper and lower limit for nutrient quantity descriptors in the Proposed Draft Guidelines for Health and Nutrition Claims on Food Product Labelling as requested by the Committee on Food Labelling. The Committee had agreed on a revised table of Proposed Conditions for Claims for Nutrient Contents for consideration by the Committee on Food Labelling as part of the Proposed Draft Guidelines on Nutrition and Health Claims for Food Labelling. The Chairman of the Committee added that the Committee should continue the work related to the Guidelines.
297. The Delegation of Denmark pointed out some discrepancy between the figure for sugars in liquid shown in paragraph 69 (0.25 g/100 ml) and that in Appendix III (0.5 g/100 ml) and stated that the latter figure was correct. The Commission requested the Committee to clarify this matter.
Methods of Analysis for Use in Standards for Foods for Special Dietary Uses (ALINORM 93/26, Appendix IV)
298. The Chairman of the Committee informed that the Working Group had considered the methods of analysis for use in Standards for Foods for Special Dietary Uses and the Committee had agreed on a list of methods for consideration by the Committee on Methods of Analysis and Sampling.
Confirmation of the Chairmanship
299. The Commission confirmed under Rule IX.10 that the Codex Committee on Nutrition and Foods for Special Dietary Uses should continue to be under the Chairmanship of Germany.
CODEX COMMITTEE ON MEAT HYGIENE (Agenda Item 29)
300. The Commission had before it the documents ALINORM 93/16 and 93/16A, the reports of the 6th and 7th Sessions of the Committee. The reports were presented by the Chairman of the Committee, Dr. Russell Ballard of New Zealand. The Commission recalled that the 18th Session of the Commission had decided to reactivate the Committee on Meat Hygiene to revise four meat codes established between 1972 and 1982 taking into account developments in the meat hygiene field, such as risk analysis and HACCP systems, and the progress in the GATT Uruguay Round discussions on Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures.
301. The Chairman of the Committee thanked Dr. Colin Field, Consultant, for preparing the draft codes and the member governments for their cooperation that had enabled the revision of the codes in a very short time.
Consideration of the Draft Code of Hygienic Practice for Fresh Meat at Steps 5 and 8 (ALINORM 93/16A, Appendix II)
302. The Chairman of the Committee informed the Commission that the Committee had agreed to advance the draft revised Code of Hygienic Practice for Fresh Meat to Step 5 with the recommendation that it be adopted by the Commission at Step 8 with the omission of Steps 6 and 7.
303. The Delegation of Brazil stated that the Code of Hygienic Practice was unacceptable for them since the legislation of Brazil was different from the Codex Code.
Status of the Draft Code of Hygienic Practice
304. The Commission adopted the draft Code of Hygienic Practice for Fresh Meat at Step 8.
Consideration of the Draft Code of Practice for the Ante-and Post-Mortem Inspection of Slaughter Animals and for Ante- and Post-Mortem Judgement of Slaughter Animals and Meat at Steps 5 and 8 (ALINORM 93/16A, Appendix III)
305. The Chairman of the Committee informed the Commission that the 6th Session of the Committee had decided to combine the draft revised Code of Practice for Ante-and Post-Mortem Inspection of Slaughter Animals with the draft revised Code of Practice for Ante-and Post-Mortem judgement of Slaughter Animals and Meat. The 7th Session of the Committee had agreed to advance the draft revised Code of Practice to Step 5 with recommendations that it be adopted by the Commission at Step 8 with the omission of Steps 6 and 7.
Status of the Draft Code of Practice
306. The Commission adopted the draft Code of Practice for the Ante- and Post-Mortem Inspection of Slaughter Animals and for Ante- and Post-Mortem Judgement of Slaughter Animals and Meat at Step 8.
Consideration of the Draft Code of Hygienic Practice for Game at Steps 5 and 8 (ALINORM 93/16A, Appendix IV)
307. The Chairman of the Committee informed the Commission that the Committee had agreed to advance the draft revised Code of Hygienic Practice for Game to Step 5 with recommendations that it be adopted by the Commission at Step 8 with the omission of Steps 6 and 7.
Status of the Draft Code of Hygienic Practice
308. The Commission adopted the draft Code of Hygienic Practice for Game at Step 8.
Other Matters arising from the Reports of the 6th and 7th Sessions of the Committee
Harmonization of Branding and Other Marking Procedures
(ALINORM 93/16A, paras. 97–98)
309. The Commission noted that the Committee, at its 7th Session had decided not to commence work on harmonization of branding and other marking procedures since governments had not shown real interest to undertake work in this area.
Control and Monitoring of Residues of Veterinary Drugs in Livestock
(ALINORM 93/16A, paras. 33–35)
310. The Chairman of the Committee informed the Commission that the Committee had recommended that the Codex Committees on Residues of Veterinary Drugs in Foods and on General Principles explore a new approach of residue control in livestock and include appropriate principles into Codex recommendations on residue monitoring policies.
Adjournment of the Committee sine die (ALINORM 93/16A, para. 100)
311. The Commission, while congratulating the Chairman, the New Zealand Secretariat and the Committee for successfully completing the revision of the three, formerly four, meat codes, concurred that the Committee be adjourned sine die.
Confirmation of Chairmanship of the Committee
312. The Commission confirmed under Rule IX.10 that the Codex Committee on Meat Hygiene should continue to be under the Chairmanship of New Zealand.
CODEX COMMITTEE ON TROPICAL FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLES (Agenda Item 30)
313. The reports of the Third and Fourth Sessions of the Codex Committee on Tropical Fresh Fruits and Vegetables (ALINORM 93/35 and ALINORM 93/35A, respectively) were presented by Ing. Eduardo R. Mendez (Mexico) in the absence of the Chairman of the Committee, Lic. Luis Guillermo Ibarra. The Commission also had for its consideration government comments on items discussed by the Committee as summarized in documents ALINORM 93/29 and CAC/LIM 3 (ALINORM 93/39-Add. 1), as well as the report of the 40th Session of the Executive Committee of the Codex Alimentarius Commission concerning this issue (paras. 25–32, ALINORM 93/4).
Consideration of Draft Codex Standards for Pineapple, Papaya and Mango at Step 8
314. The Commission was informed that the Third Session of the Codex Committee on Tropical Fresh Fruits and Vegetables had agreed to advance the draft Codex Standards for Pineapple, Papaya and Mango (Appendices II, III and IV, respectively; ALINORM 93/35) to the Commission for adoption at Step 8 (paras. 56, 63 and 75, respectively; ALINORM 93/35). Subsequent to this decision, the Commission noted that the labelling provisions of these standards had been endorsed by the 22nd Session of the Codex Committee on Food Labelling (see para. 189, above).
315. With reference to the Codex Standard for Mango and in response to comments from the floor, the Commission noted that the Fourth Session of the Committee had considered proposals of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE), and had decided to adopt the UNECE suggestions concerning size tolerances (Section 4.2). However, the Fourth Session of the Committee did not agree to the UNECE suggestions concerning the inclusion of a minimum requirement (Section 2.1) concerning freedom from pests nor regarding the mandatory labelling of variety in Section 6.2.2 - Nature of Produce (paras. 12–15, ALINORM 93/35A). The Commission noted that the above decisions concerning pests and variety were also applied to the draft Codex Standards for Pineapple and Papaya. The Delegation of Poland supported the UNECE position and stated that botanical names should of necessity be included in these standards. The Delegation of Germany stated that important aspects were missing from the standards including a provision for freedom from pests, and that there was a need to revise the tables for size tolerances.
316. In response to concerns expressed by the Delegation of Spain regarding the inclusion of a footnote to the standards stating that governments would indicate which provisions would be accepted at the point of import or export (Section 1 - Definition of Produce), the Commission noted that the footnote had been included in these standards at its 18th Session, on the advice of the Committee on General Principles, because of differences in the application of UNECE and Codex Standards and as a compromise solution (para. 391, ALINORM 89/40).
Status of the Draft Codex Standards for Pineapple, Papaya and Mango
317. The Commission, while noting that written as well as oral comments presented at its current Session had been adequately taken into account by the Codex Committee on Tropical Fresh Fruits and Vegetables when elaborating the above standards, adopted the Codex Standards for Pineapple, Papaya and Mango at Step 8. In making this decision, the Commission also noted that subsequent changes made to the Codex Standard for Mango by the Committee at its Fourth Session would be incorporated into the Standard before its final publication.
Consideration of Proposed Draft Codex Standards for Nopal, Prickly Pear and Carambola at Steps 5/8
318. The Commission was informed that the Third Session of the Codex Committee on Tropical Fresh Fruits and Vegetables had agreed to advance the proposed draft Codex Standards for Nopal, Prickly Pear and Carambola (Appendices V, VI and VII, respectively; ALINORM 93/35) to the Commission for adoption at Steps 5/8, with a recommendation to omit Steps 6 and 7 under the accelerated elaboration procedure (paras. 84 and 95, respectively; ALINORM 93/35). The Commission noted that the labelling provisions of these standards had been endorsed by the 22nd Session of the Codex Committee on Food Labelling (see para. 189, above).
Status of the Proposed Draft Codex Standards for Nopal, Prickly Pear and Carambola
319. The Commission adopted the proposed draft Codex Standards for Nopal, Prickly Pear and Carambola at Step 8 under the accelerated elaboration procedures.
Consideration of the Proposed Draft Codex Standards for Litchi and Baby Corn at Steps 5/8
320. The Commission was informed that the Fourth Session of the Codex Committee on Tropical Fresh Fruits and Vegetables had agreed to advance the proposed draft Codex Standards for Litchi and Baby Corn (Appendices II and III, respectively; ALINORM 93/35A) to the Commission for adoption at Steps 5/8, with a recommendation to omit Steps 6 and 7 under the accelerated elaboration procedure (paras. 36 and 49, respectively; ALINORM 93/35A). The Commission further noted that the labelling provisions of these standards had been endorsed by the 22nd Session of the Codex Committee on Food Labelling (see para. 189, above).
321. Several delegations were of the opinion that the proposed draft Codex Standard for Litchi required additional examination by the Committee, especially in regard to the Brix to acid ratio and the inclusion of a specific limit for sulphur dioxide treatments and therefore, did not accept the final adoption of the standard.
Status of the Proposed Draft Codex Standards for Litchi and Baby Corn
322. The Commission adopted the proposed draft Codex Standard for Baby Corn at Step 8 under the accelerated elaboration procedures. The proposed draft Codex Standard for Litchi was adopted by the Commission at Step 5 only, with the understanding that the above comments would be taken into account by the Committee at Step 6 when discussing the standard at Step 7.
Consideration of the Proposed Draft Codex Standards for Banana and Avocado at Step 5
323. The Commission was informed that the Fourth Session of the Codex Committee on Tropical Fresh Fruits and Vegetables had agreed to advance the proposed draft Codex Standards for Banana and Avocado (Appendices IV and V, respectively; ALINORM 93/35A) to the Commission for adoption at Step 5 (paras. 67 and 81, respectively; ALINORM 93/35A). Subsequent to this decision, the Commission noted that the labelling provisions of these standards were endorsed by the 22nd Session of the Codex Committee on Food Labelling (see Agenda Item 23(d), above).
324. With reference to the proposed draft Codex Standard for Banana, it was suggested that references to defects of the skin as related to specific total surface areas (i.e., in Class I and II) should be deleted. It was also suggested that the size tolerances (Section 4.2) should be raised from 5 to 10 percent and that a minimum requirement (Section 2.1) concerning damage from hail should be inserted.
325. In regard to the proposed draft Codex Standard for Avocado, some delegations were of the opinion that provisions concerning sizing (Section 3) should be aligned with the corresponding section of the UNECE Standard for Avocado in order to prevent consumer confusion and distortions in trade.
Status of the Proposed Draft Codex Standards for Banana and Avocado
326. The proposed draft Codex Standards for Banana and Avocado were adopted by the Commission at Step 5, with the understanding that the above comments would be taken into account by the Committee at Step 6 when discussing the standard at Step 7.
327. The Commission was informed that the Fourth Session of the Codex Committee on Tropical Fresh Fruits and Vegetables had agreed to advance the proposed draft Code of Practice for the Packaging and Transport of Tropical Fresh Fruits and Vegetables (Appendix VI, ALINORM 93/35A) to the Commission for adoption at Step 5 (para. 101, ALINORM 93/35A).
328. The Commission agreed to adopt the proposed draft Code of Practice for the Packaging and Transport of Tropical Fresh Fruits and Vegetables at Step 5.
329. The Commission was informed that the Third Session of the Codex Committee on Tropical Fresh Fruits and Vegetables had agreed to advance the proposed draft Glossary of Scientific and Common Names of Tropical Fresh Fruits and Vegetables (Appendix VIII, ALINORM 93/35) to the Commission for adoption at Step 5 (para. 122, ALINORM 93/35).
330. The Commission adopted the proposed draft Glossary of Scientific and Common Names for Tropical Fresh Fruits and Vegetables at Step 5, with the understanding that similar names used by the UNECE and translation of English terms into French would be carefully considered by the Committee at Step 7.
Other Matters arising from the Reports of the 3rd and 4th Sessions of the Committee
Consideration of Proposed Additions to the Priority List of Tropical Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
331. The Commission approved the priority list of tropical fresh fruits and vegetables (Appendix IX, ALINORM 93/35A), with the understanding that a suggestion of the Delegation of China to standardize Longan would be considered by the Committee at its next Session. The Commission also agreed that quality provisions contained in UNECE standards for similar products would be taken into account.
Terms of Reference for the Codex Committee on Tropical Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
332. The Commission was informed that the Fourth Session of the Codex Committee on Tropical Fresh Fruits and Vegetables, while recalling its discussions concerning the relationship between Codex and the UNECE (paras. 16–21, ALINORM 93/35A), had proposed to expand its terms of reference to create a Codex body which would establish international standards for all fresh fruits and vegetables (para. 123, ALINORM 93/35A). This proposal was based on the need to have and appropriate international infrastructure to satisfy the growing demand for international standards, as evidenced by the globalization of economic initiatives.
333. The Commission also noted that negotiations were under way between the UNECE, FAO and Codex secretariats to reach a compromise solution which would allow the continued activity in this area; one option under consideration was the establishment of joint ECE/Codex working groups operating under the same host country arrangements as applied within the Codex framework. The Executive Committee had been informed that in addition to work on fresh fruits and vegetables there were similar problems with the UNECE in relation to processed fruits and vegetables; cereals, pulses and legumes; and meat and poultry (ALINORM 93/4, para. 27).
334. The Executive Committee had noted that in view of the negotiations on the future of cooperation between UNECE and Codex the expansion of the Committee's terms of reference would be a consequential development of the establishment of a joint Codex/ECE working party. If negotiations led to the establishment of a joint Codex/ECE working party, this would lead to an enlarged scope for the Committee along the lines of the proposed expanded terms of reference.
335. Several delegations, as well as the Representative of the UNECE, did not support the expansion of the Committee's terms of reference as proposed, as the existing cooperative arrangements between Codex and the UNECE in the current Codex terms of reference for the Committee apparently prevented the duplication of work and overlap in standardization activities. It was stated that quality provisions in the UNECE standards as clarified by interpretive brochures produced by the Organization of Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), were of particular value for producers as well as quality control services and did not conflict with the emphasis of health and safety requirements in Codex standards. It was also noted that the establishment of quality provisions in Codex Standards was not in line with the “horizontal” approach of standardization taken by Codex in recent years with its emphasis on food safety. The lack of participation by several newly created Eastern European countries in Codex activities was emphasized as a potential problem. It was pointed out that the membership of the UNECE included the countries of Europe, the former USSR, Israel, Canada and the United States of America.
336. The Representative of the UNECE clarified that the expansion of the scope of the UNECE standards to refer to their use in international trade was not intended to imply that such standards were elaborated on a global basis and stated that this decision was under review. The Representative also highlighted the past cooperative efforts of Joint Codex/UNECE groups on fruit juices and quick frozen foods.
337. A majority of delegations commenting on this issue supported the proposed expansion of the Committee's terms of reference and agreed that it should work in cooperation with the UNECE in order to produce standards for exporting and importing countries through the participation of the 144 Codex member countries. It was stated that there should only be one international standardizing body for foods moving in international trade, this being Codex, and that the elaboration of standards based on regional participation created confusion and duplication of efforts. It was emphasized that despite the recommendation arising from the Conference on Food Standards, Chemicals in Food and Food Trade to focus more attention on the elaboration of health and safety requirements in Codex standards, the 19th Session of the Commission had also stated that Codex Committees should consider other essential elements needed to assure fair trade practices and protection against fraud, which would include quality requirements.
338. Many delegations stated that it was desirable that only one standardizing body, Codex, should elaborate international standards for fresh fruits and vegetables. However, the Commission, in order to avoid duplication of effort, encouraged joint efforts with the UNECE in this and other areas, including the standardization of processed fruits and vegetables, cereal and cereal products and meat and poultry.
339. However, in view of the current negotiations between Codex, FAO and UNECE to arrive at a workable solution to the problem, the Commission agreed to maintain the Committee's terms of reference as currently drafted pending the outcome of further consultations between the Commission through the Executive Committee and the Codex, FAO and UNECE Secretariats. It was noted that a report concerning these efforts would be presented to the 41st Session of the Executive Committee with a view towards providing advice to the Commission on how to proceed and to the Committee on Tropical Fresh Fruits and Vegetables for information.
340. The Commission confirmed under Rule IX.10 that the Codex Committee on Tropical Fresh Fruits and Vegetables should continue to be under the Chairmanship of the Government of Mexico.
CODEX COMMITTEE ON FISH AND FISHERY PRODUCTS (Agenda Item 31)
341. The Report of the Twentieth Session of the Committee on Fish and Fishery Products (ALINORM 93/18) was presented by Mr. John Race (Norway), the Chairman of the Committee. Mr. Race highlighted the work undertaken by the Committee in line with the recommendations of the Nineteenth Session of the Commission, concerning the review of the format of Codex Standards and he thanked the Delegation of Canada for its efforts in taking the leader role of the Working Groups involved in the review of the standards and Codex of Practice. The Committee had also incorporated HACCP principles as recommended by the Codex Committee on Food Hygiene.
Consideration of the Draft Standard for Dried Shark Fins at Step 8 (ALINORM 93/18 paras. 47–55 and Appendix III)
342. The Commission was informed that the draft standard was revised by the Committee at its last Session and that written comments had been included in document CAC/LIM 3 (1993). The Commission also noted that the term “flavour” should be deleted from section 3.2.2 of the standard.
343. The Commission adopted the Standard for Dried Shark Fins at Step 8 (Appendix III, of ALINORM 93/18), as revised above.
Consideration of a number of Proposed Draft Revised Standards at Step 5 (ALINORM 93/18 paras. 56–110 and Appendices IV-XV)
344. The Commission noted that a complex review had been carried out by the Committee at its last Session on all existing Codex Standards for Fish and Fishery Products, and that the Proposed Draft Revised Standards were being presented for adoption at Step 5.
345. The Representative of the EEC stated its opposition to the adoption at Step 5 of the proposed draft standards because several recommendations on processing and hygiene, strictly related to food safety, had been included in Codes of Practice as advisory issues and not in the standards as mandatory procedures. According the Observer, this could influence the acceptance of the standards, especially in view of the proposed GATT decision on Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures. The Codex Secretariat pointed out that the advisory character of all Codex Codes of Practice had been decided by the Commission many years ago and was not an issue restricted to the fish standards and codes. It was suggested that the Codex Committee on General Principles could provide advice on the use of the Codes of Practice as documents intended for mandatory application.
346. The Delegation of Brazil expressed its reservation on the association of the terms tuna and bonito, which should not be used in the standard as synonyms, and on section 6.1.1 of the Codex standard for Canned Sardine and Sardine-Type products where the designation of sardine should not be reserved exclusively for Sardina pilchardus.
347. The Delegation of Sweden pointed out that the Codex Committee on Fish and Fishery Products should take into consideration the recommendation of the Labelling Committee on the simplification of the labelling provisions of the standards. The Delegation also noted that the nomenclature used by the Codex Committee on Fish and Fishery Products for canned sardines and sardine-type products and canned tuna and bonito should be in agreement with FAO Fisheries Synopsis No. 125, Vol. 7, para. 1, 1985 and para. 2, 1988 for sardines and No. 125, Vol 2, 1983 for tuna and bonito. The Delegation of Sweden also objected to the inclusion of azo-colours in the standards for Canned Shrimps or Prawns and Quick Frozen Shrimps or Prawns.
348. The Delegation of France, supported by Switzerland, presented reservations on several matters concerning the use of EDTA in canned shrimps and prawns, the definition of species of tuna and bonito, the level of histamine as being too high, the definition of sardines not compatible with EEC directives and the use of polyphosphate as water retention agents. The Delegation of Poland also reserved its position regarding the levels of heavy metals and the use of food additives in fish and fishery products.
349. The Delegation of The Netherlands questioned terminology used in Codex fish standards as “commercial sterility” and “reasonably free of parasites” which were considered not sufficiently precise. The Observer from the EEC stated that the EEC was not in favour of adopting the Proposed Draft Revised Standards for Tuna and Bonito and Sardines and Sardine-Like Products at Step 5.
350. The Chairman of the Committee noted that several of the comments presented reflected the position of the same countries at the Session of the Codex Committee on Fish and Fishery Products and that the revised standards represented in several cases a compromise solution. The Chairman also noted that there was no reason to delay the adoption of the revised standards. He highlighted that the draft standards would be revised and recirculated for comments. He encouraged countries to submit comments to the Committee on Fish and Fishery Products in a timely manner.
351. The Commission agreed to adopt all of the proposed draft standards at Step 5.
Consideration of the Proposed Amendements to the Codex Standard for Canned Crab (EDTA) at Step 5 (ALINORM 93/18 paras. 139–142)
352. The Committee had noted that there was no reason to prevent the use of Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid salts (EDTA) for Canned Crab Meat and proposed the amendment for adoption by the Commission at Step 5.
353. The Delegation of France, supported by Germany, reiterated its opposition to the use of EDTA, which could be subsituted by other additives, such as glucono-δ-lactone or sorbitol. The Delegation expressed concern for toxicological and nutritional reasons.
354. The Commission adopted the proposed amendment at Step 5 of the Codex Procedure, with the understanding that the provision allowing the use of EDTA would be forwarded to the Codex Committee on Food Additives and Contaminants for endorsement.
Other Matters arising from the Report of the 20th Session of the Committee
Code of Practice for the Sensory Evaluation of Fish and Shellfish
(ALINORM 93/18 paras. 19–24)
355. The Commission noted that the Committee had discussed Procedures for the Sensory Evaluation of Fish and Shellfish and had agreed that a comprehensive Code of Practice for Sensory Evaluation of Fish should be elaborated. The Commission approved this procedure.
Code of Practice for Surimi (ALINORM 93/18 paras. 126–129)
356. The Commission was informed that the Committee, noting the increased trade and consumption of surimi worldwide, had agreed to recommend the elaboration of a Code of Practice. The Commission approved this procedure.
Amendment to the Code of Practice for Fresh Fish (ALINORM 93/18 paras. 25–27)
357. The Committee proposed to amend the Code to include provisions for fresh fish and fillets instead of amending the draft Codex standard for Quick Frozen Fish. The Commission noted the favourable opinion of the Executive Committee and agreed to approve the Committee's proceeding with the above amendment.
Confirmation of Chairmanship of the Committee
358. The Commission confirmed under Rule IX.10 that the Codex Committee on Fish and Fishery Products should be under the Chairmanship of the Government of Norway.
CODEX COMMITTEE ON CEREALS, PULSES AND LEGUMES (Agenda Item 32)
359. The Commission had for its consideration the report of the 8th Session of the Codex Committee on Cereals, Pulses and Legumes (ALINORM 93/29) which was presented by the Chairman of the Committee, Mr. Steven N. Tanner (United States). Government comments on issues before the Commission were summarized in documents ALINORM 93/39 and CAC/LIM 3 (ALINORM 93/39-Add. 1).
Consideration of Proposed Draft Guideline Levels for Aflatoxins in Peanuts at Step 5
360. The Commission was informed that the Committee had decided to forward proposed draft guideline levels for aflatoxins in peanuts (i.e., 10 μg/kg processed; 15μg/kg raw) and sampling plans previously discussed (Appendix II, ALINORM 91/29) in square brackets for adoption by the Commission at Step 5 on a provisional basis (para. 32, ALINORM 93/29). This decision was taken with the understanding that levels for aflatoxins should be kept as low as practical in order to facilitate trade and protect consumers, and should only be elaborated based on specific sampling plans. The Commission also noted that specific levels would be incorporated into a new section 4.3 in the proposed draft Codex Standard for Peanuts (see paras. 364 to 365, below) prior to their endorsement by the Codex Committee on Food Additives and Contaminants and final adoption by the Commission.
361. Several delegations were of the opinion that the proposed draft values were too high and that current analytical methods could detect much lower values. The Representative of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) indicated that the ISO Standard for Peanuts (6478) had a maximum level for aflatoxins in peanuts of 5μg/kg.
362. It was also suggested that the Committee should examine the results of the FAO Consultation on Sampling Plans for Aflatoxins and discussions in the Codex Committee on Food Additives and Contaminants before proceeding further.
Status of the Proposed Draft Guideline Levels for Aflatoxins in Peanuts
363. The Commission agreed to return the proposed draft levels and sampling plans to Step 3 for an additional round of government comments. It was also agreed that the Codex Committee on Food Additives and Contaminants would be advised of this decision.
Consideration of the Proposed Draft Codex Standard for Rice at Step 5 (Appendix II, ALINORM 93/29)
Consideration of the Proposed Draft Codex Standard for Wheat and Durum Wheat at Step 5 (Appendices III and IV, respectively; ALINORM 93/29)
Consideration of the Proposed Draft Codex Standard for Peanuts at Step 5 (Appendix VI, ALINORM 93/29)
Consideration of the Proposed Draft Codex Standard for Oats at Step 5 (Appendix VI, ALINORM 93/29)
364. The Commission was informed that the Committee had agreed to advance all of the above proposed draft Codex Standards to the commission for adoption at Step 5. The Commission also noted that the labelling provisions of the Standards had been endorsed by the 22nd Session of the Codex Committee on Food Labelling (see para. 189 above) and that the Standards were under review by an ad hoc Working Group under the direction of the United Kingdom to determine which sections should be transferred to an advisory text or removed from the Standard (see paras. 373 to 376 below).
365. In relation to the proposed draft standards for Wheat and Durum Wheat, the Delegation of the People's Republic of China suggested the elaboration of a combined Standard with a single moisture level of 13.5%, as it was of the opinion that higher moisture levels did not maintain product quality during transport and storage.
Status of the Proposed Draft Codex Standards for Rice, Wheat, Durum Wheat, Peanuts and Oats
366. The Commission agreed to adopt the proposed draft Codex Standards at Step 5, and requested the Committee to take into account the comment made by the Delegation of China concerning the Proposed Draft Standards for Wheat and Durum Wheat.
Consideration of the Proposed Draft Amendment to the Codex Standard for Wheat Flour at Step 5
367. The Commission was informed that the Committee had decided to revise the fat acidity basis and measurement (para. 118, ALINORM 93/29) as related to ISO Method 7305 in the Codex Standard for Wheat Flour (Section 3.3.2). The proposal to change the fat acidity value to 70mg/100g (expressed as sulphuric acid) was circulated for government comments at Step 3, and endorsed by the Codex Committee on Methods of Analysis and Sampling.
Status of the Proposed Draft Amendment to the Codex Standard for Wheat Flour
368. The Commission adopted the proposed draft amendement to the Codex Standard for Wheat Flour at Step 5, with the understanding that consideration would be given to including this provision in an advisory text to the Standard by the ad hoc Working Group under the direction of the United States (see paras. 373 to 376 below).
Other Matters arising from the Report of the 8th Session of the Committee
Consideration of Draft Guideline Levels for Contaminants in Codex Standards
Arsenic and Mercury
369. The Commission was informed that the Committee had decided to return the draft Guideline Levels for Arsenic and Mercury (i.e., 0.5 and 0.05 mg/kg, respectively) in cereals, pulses and legumes to Step 6 for additional government comments (para. 20, ALINORM 93/29).
370. The Commission agreed with this procedure.
Cadmium and Lead
371. The Commission was informed that the Committee had decided to return the draft Guideline Levels for Cadmium and Lead (i.e., 0.1 and 0.5 mg/kg, respectively) in cereals, pulses
and legumes to Step 6 for additional government comments and in consideration of the recent JECFA evaluation (para. 24, ALINORM 93/29).
372. The Commission agreed with this procedure.
Review of the Format of Worldwide Codex Standards for Cereal and Cereal Product and Conversion of Regional Standards to Worldwide Codex Standards
373. The Commission was informed that the Committee had established an ad hoc Working Group under the direction of the United States (paras. 98–100, ALINORM 93/29) to review and simplify previously adopted Worldwide Codex Standards for Cereals and Cereal Products as directed by the Codex Committee on General Principles (paras. 67–68, ALINORM 93/33).
374. The Committee also decided (paras. 105–106, ALINORM 93/29) that the U.S. ad hoc Working Group would review previously adopted Codex Regional Standards for Cereals and Cereal Products with a view towards their elaboration as Worldwide Codex Standards, as directed by the 19th Session of the Commission (paras. 93–94, ALINORM 91/40).
375. The Commission was also informed that the Committee had decided (para. 49, ALINORM 93/29) to establish an ad hoc Working Group under the direction of the United Kingdom to review current standards being elaborated for Cereals and Cereal Products to determine which provisions would be transferred to an advisory text or completely removed from the standards.
376. The Commission, while noting that the Governments of the United States and the United Kingdom have commenced with this review, agreed with the above procedures.
Confirmation of Chairmanship of the Committee
377. The Commission confirmed under Rule IX.10 that the Codex Committee on Cereals, Pulses and Legumes should continue to be under the Chairmanship of the Government of the United States of America.
CODEX COMMITTEE ON PROCESSED FRUITS AND VEGETABLES (Agenda Item 33)
378. The Delegation of the United States introduced a progress report on the work of the Committee and recalled that the Commission had decided at its 19th Session to convert regional standards into world-wide standards, entrusting the Committee with the development of the standards for Vinegar and Fresh Fungus “Chanterelle” (see ALINORM 93/32 and paras. 72 to 74 above). These standards had been revised and circulated for government comments at Step 3. It was also noted that existing standards were currently being reviewed, in accordance with the recommendations of the 19th Session of the Commission, and that they would be circulated for comments according to the Arrangements for the Amendment of Codex Standards Elaborated by Codex Committees which had been adjourned sine die.
Confirmation of the Chairmanship
379. The Commission confirmed under Rule IX.10 that the Committee on Processed Fruits and Vegetables should continue under the Chairmanship of the Government of the United States.
CODEX COMMITTEE ON FATS AND OILS (Agenda Item 34)
380. The Chairman of the Committee, Dr. John Bell (United Kingdom) presented a report on the activities of the Committee, recalling that it had been agreed by the 19th Session of the Commission to reconvene a session of the Committee in view of the work to be completed on the revision and elaboration of new texts. The 14th Session of the Committee would be held from 27 September - 1st October 1993 in London.
381. The Commission was informed that following the recommendations of the 19th Session of the Commission, fats and oils standards had been reviewed by the Secretariat of the Committee on Fats and Oils and proposals for simplifying the standards had been made by transferring provisions regarding quality to advisory appendices. A number of individual standards had been incorporated into proposed more general standards, as follows:
It was reported that the Standard for Edible Fats and Oils not covered by Individual Standards had been revised and a proposed revision of the Standard for Olive Oils had been revised based on recommendations of the International Olive Oil Council (IOOC). A draft revised Code of Practice for the Storage and Transport of Edible Fats and Oils in Bulk had also been prepared for the Committee's consideration. A Revised Proposed Draft Standard for Fat Spreads had been prepared in Consultation with IDF and IFMA. The conversion of the Regional Standards for Mayonnaise to a world-wide standard was in progress. Government comments had been requested on all revised texts, for consideration by the next session of the Committee.
382. The Delegations of Norway and New Zealand pointed out that the Steering Committee on behalf of the former Milk Committee had expressed the view that butter should not be included in the Proposed Draft Standard for Fat Spreads, and recalled that it had been agreed to develop this standard in cooperation with the new Codex Committee on Milk and Milk Products. The Commission also noted the view expressed by Malaysia as regard to changes proposed for the Code of Practice for Storage and Transport of Edible Oils and Fats in Bulk. The Committee was requested to ensure that changes to be made to the Code of Practice were technically feasible without causing under difficulties to existing trade practices but rather used as a guide to further facilitate trade. The Commission noted that these comments would be taken into account by the next session of the Committee.
383. The Commission was informed that the Draft Standards for Palm Olein and Palm Stearin, advanced at Step 5 by the 19th Session of the Commission, had been reformatted and revised in the light of comments at Step 6, and that they would be considered at Step 7 by the next session of the Committee.
384. The Commission confirmed under Rule IX.10 that the Committee on Fats and Oils would continue under the Chairmanship of the Government of the United Kingdom.
CODEX COMMITTEE ON SUGARS (Agenda Item 35)
385. The Commission noted that this Committee had been adjourned sine die and had been working through correspondence. Mr. Charles Cockbill of the United Kingdom introduced a progress report.
Proposed Draft Standard for Sugars (CL 1993/14-SH)
386. The Commission recalled that the 19th Session of the Commission had adopted the proposed draft Standard for Raw Cane Sugar at Step 5 and Amendments to Codex Standards for Sugar - Revision of Lead Levels and recommended the Committee on Methods of Analysis and Sampling to endorse revised methods of analysis for sugars.
387. In light of the Commission's decision to review and simplify Codex Standards, the United Kingdom, Secretariat had reviewed all the existing Standards for Sugars and found these Standards very similar. In order to simplify the standards, the Secretariat had prepared a new Proposed Draft Standard for Sugars covering all sugars by combining the existing individual Standards and the Draft Standard for Raw Cane Sugar and by incorporating new lead levels and methods of analysis now endorsed by the Committee on Methods of Analysis and Sampling. The proposed draft Standard had been circulated for government comments at Step 3. It was recommended that the proposed draft Standard, after amendment based on government comments, if any, be submitted to the next Commission for adoption at Step 5 with recommendations that Steps 6 and 7 be omitted.
Proposed Draft Standard for Honey (CL 1993/14-SH)
388. In order to simplify the existing Standard for Honey, the Secretariat had prepared a proposed draft Revised Standard for Honey and it had been circulated for government comments at Step 3. It was noted that the proposed draft revised Standard, after amendment based on government comments, should be submitted to the next Commission for adoption at Step 5 with recommendations that Steps 6 and 7 be omitted.
389. The Commission confirmed under Rule IX.10 that the Codex Committee on Sugars should continue to be under the Chairmanship of the United Kingdom.
CODEX COMMITTEE ON VEGETABLE PROTEINS (Agenda Item 36)
390. The Commission confirmed under Rule IX.10 that the Codex Committee on Vegetable Proteins should continue to be under the Chairmanship of Canada.
CODEX COMMITTEE ON COCOA PRODUCTS AND CHOCOLATE (Agenda Item 37)
391. The Commission confirmed under Rule IX.10 that the Codex Committee on Cocoa Products and Chocolate should continue to be under the Chairmanship of Switzerland.
CODEX COMMITTEE ON SOUPS AND BROTHS (Agenda Item 38)
392. The Commission noted that this Committee had been adjourned sine die and had been working through correspondence. Mr. Pierre Rossier (Switzerland) presented a progress report based on ALINORM 93/14.
Revised Proposed Draft Standard for Bouillons and Consommés (ALINORM 93/14, Appendix I)
393. In light of the decision made by the 19th Session of the Commission to simplify and revise Codex Standards, the Secretariat had prepared a proposed draft revised Standard for Bouillons and Consommés and circulated it for government comments at Step 3. The Secretariat had amended the proposed draft standard based on the government comments in response to the Circular Letter, which were summarized in ALINORM 93/14. It had been proposed to advance the amended proposed draft Standard to Step 5 for adoption by the Commission and, if adopted, to circulate it for additional comments at Step 6 to decide whether the Committee should convene.
Status of the proposed draft Standard
394. The Commission adopted the proposed draft Standard at Step 5 and agreed to circulate it for government comment at Step 6.
395. The Commission confirmed under Rule IX.10 that the Codex Committee on Soups and Broths should continue to be under the Chairmanship of Switzerland.
CODEX COMMITTEE ON EDIBLE ICES (Agenda Item 39)
396. The Commission confirmed under Rule IX.10 that the Codex Committee on Edible Ices should continue to be under the Chairmanship of Sweden.
CODEX COMMITTEE ON PROCESSED MEAT AND POULTRY (Agenda Item 39 bis)
397. The Commission confirmed under Rule IX.10 that the Codex Committee on Processed Meat and Poultry should continue to be under the Chairmanship of Denmark.
CODEX COMMITTEE ON NATURAL MINERAL WATERS (Agenda Item 40)
398. The Commission was informed by the Delegation of Switzerland that the conversion of the existing Codex European Regional Standard for Natural Mineral Waters (CODEX STAN 108-1981) to a world-wide standard had been initiated. A proposed draft revision was circulated for comments at Step 3 through Circular Letter CL 1993/4-NMW. Written comments received in reply to the above circular letter were included in Conference Room Documents ALINORM 93/2 Add. 1 and Add.2. Proposed amendments to CODEX STAN 108-1981, as elaborated by the Codex and Swiss Secretariats, had been included in Appendix I of Conference Room Document ALINORM 93/2 Add. 1 and were presented to the Commission for adoption at Step 5.
399. The Delegation of Brazil indicated that it disagreed with the conversion of the regional standard to a worldwide standard because there was a need to take into consideration the different mineral characteristics in different regions of the world. The Representative of the EEC informed the Commission that the Scientific Committee for Food was currently considering the composition factors and contamination of mineral water and that a scientific document would be available by early 1994.
400. The Delegation of Malaysia raised the question of compatibility of some mineral levels with the WHO Guidelines for Drinking Water Quality. The WHO Joint Session Secretary informed that the Guidelines had been updated recently, that they were not standards in themselves and should be considered in the context of prevailing environmental, social, economic and cultural conditions in different regions, but that they should be taken into account in the standardization of mineral water.
Status of the Draft Amendments to the Standard for Natural Mineral Waters
401. The Commission adopted the proposed amendments as proposed at Step 5 of the Codex procedure.
Confirmation of the Chairmanship of the Committee
402. The Commission confirmed under Rule IX.10 that the Codex Committee on Natural Mineral Waters should continue to be under the Chairmanship of the Government of Switzerland.
FUTURE WORK (Item 41)
403. The Commission noted that in addition to the ongoing work being carried out by its subsidiary bodies, the following main subjects would need to be considered at its next session:
Consideration of proposals to base Codex standards and other recommendations on scientific principles and the extent to which other factors needed to be taken into account;
Development of strategies to implement the Medium-Term Plan 1993–98; and
Cooperation with the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe in the elaboration of world-wide standards for fresh fruit and vegetables and related products.
404. The Commission also requested all committees adjourned sine die to take whatever action necessary to revise the standards for which they were responsible in line with the guidance provided by the Commission at its 19th Session.
405. The Delegation of Hungary requested that the Joint ECE/Codex Alimentarius Group of Experts on Standardization of Quick Frozen Foods be reconvened, in view of the need to revise existing product standards and consider new ones. The Commission noted that a decision to reconvene this Group should be taken in connection with the modalities of future cooperation with the UNECE.
406. The Delegation of Uganda requested that the Commission give consideration to the development of microbiological specifications for fish. The Commission recalled that the Committee on Food Hygiene had decided to undertake a review of the need for, and the role of, microbiological specifications for foods (See para. 253 above) and agreed that it would be appropriate for the relevant Codex Committees, including the Committee on Fish and Fishery Products, to take appropriate action on the outcome of this review.
PROVISIONAL TIMETABLE OF CODEX SESSIONS 1994–95 (Agenda Item 42)
407. The Secretariat introduced document ALINORM 93/25, the provisional timetable of Codex sessions for the remainder of 1993 and 1994/95. It was reported that the first session of the new Codex Committee on Milk and Milk Products was tentatively scheduled to be held in Rome from 28 November to 2 December 1994. The Third Session of the Codex Regional Coordinating Committee for North America and the South-West Pacific (Vancouver) had been postponed to May/June 1994 and the Fourth Session of this Committee would most likely be held in 1996. Several other dates remained subject to confirmation and a new timetable would be issued once all dates were confirmed.
OTHER BUSINESS (Agenda Item 43)
A. The Need for More Effective Mechanisms to Distribute Codex Documents in Developing Countries
408. The Commission endorsed the recommendations contained in paragraphs 33–38 of the Report of the Fortieth Session of the Executive Committee, ALINORM 93/4, on this subject.
409. The Delegation of Nigeria stressed the need for more effective direct contact to be made between the Codex Secretariat, Codex Contact Points and FAO Representative Offices as necessary, especially when those Contact Points were responsible for the organization of meetings of Regional Coordinating Committee meetings in their countries. The Commission was requested to encourage developing countries to participate more fully in the Commission's sessions and to participate fully in the Commission's debates. The Delegation also called for more effective cooperation between the Secretariat and the secretariats of regional standardizing bodies.
B. Press Participation at Codex Sessions
410. The Commission noted that the Codex Secretariat had been informed by Legal Counsel that, although Commission Sessions are public and therefore open to the press, this was not true for Committee sessions. The Commission at its 4th Session (1966) endorsed the Guidelines for Codex Committees which state that Committee sessions should not be public unless the Committee concerned decides otherwise.
411. The Commission endorsed the views of the Executive Committee (ALINORM 93/4, paras. 38–39) that the Guidelines for Codex Committees be reviewed and revised so as to simplify them and make the Commission's work more easily understood, and to open Codex work to the public and to the press to the greatest extent possible. It asked the Committee on General Principles to develop the Guidelines for Codex Committees accordingly.
