Q: What is the Codex Alimentarius Commission?

A: The Codex Alimentarius Commission is a body established by FAO and WHO to develop food standards, guidelines and codes of practice under the Joint FAO/WHO Food Standards Programme. The Commission is based in FAO in Rome. It coordinates input from 187 Member Countries, one Member Organization and over 230 Observer organizations to develop and adopt the international food standards that comprise the Codex Alimentarius or food code. We suggest that readers visit the Codex Alimentarius website for more information.

 Q: What are the Codex General Principles of Food Hygiene?

 A: The Codex General Principle of Food Hygiene outline the general principles that should be understood and followed by food business operators at all stages of the food chain and that provide a basis for competent authorities to oversee food safety and suitability.