Cairo, Egypt - The Egyptian Organization for Standardization and Quality, led by Dr Khaled Saufy, convened the Third Egyptian Food Standards Codex Committee meeting this year. The gathering coincided with the global observance of World Food Safety Day, which was celebrated under the theme "Food safety: prepare for the unexpected".

The meeting was also attended by Mr Khalid Al-Zahrani, the Regional Coordinator for the Near East Countries under the Codex Alimentarius. Mr Al-Zahrani has been taking the floor to illustrate the ongoing work in Codex on new food sources.

During the meeting, experts and representatives from the Near East region, including Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, and Oman, took the floor to share their current work and regulations in dealing with new food sources. They highlighted the region's commitment to ensuring the safe circulation and consumption of novel food products. Public and private sector partners joined the discussion. This is an issue that is being addressed internationally within the Codex Alimentarius.

The Codex Contact Point for Singapore also participated in the event, contributing their expertise on the topic of emerging food sources and food safety. Singapore showcased two proposed projects aimed at improving the framework for regulating new food sources.

The participants emphasized the importance of regional engagement in supporting the work of the Codex Alimentarius. This includes developing legislation to ensure the safe circulation of novel food sources and addressing future challenges in food security.

"The contribution of Near Eastern countries in working to provide adequate food is crucial, especially in light of the Sustainable Development Goals," said one of the speakers.

The meeting reflects Egypt's commitment to enhancing its pioneering role within the Codex Alimentarius and food safety domains. It also demonstrates the country's support for the Coordinating Committee for the Near East in its efforts to ensure food safety and facilitate international trade.

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World Food Safety Day events this year