International Standard-Setting Activities, 54290-54299 [2023-17128]

Agencies

• DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
• U.S. Codex Office

[Federal Register Volume 88, Number 153 (Thursday, August 10, 2023)]
[Notices]
[Pages 54290-54299]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2023-17128]


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DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

U.S. Codex Office

[Docket No. USDA-2023-0011]


International Standard-Setting Activities

AGENCY: Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs (TFAA), USDA.

ACTION: Notice.

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SUMMARY: This notice informs the public of the sanitary and 
phytosanitary (SPS) standard-setting activities of the Codex 
Alimentarius (Codex), in accordance with section 491 of the Trade 
Agreements Act of 1979, as amended, and the Uruguay Round Agreements 
Act. This notice also provides a list of other standard-setting 
activities of Codex, including commodity standards, guidelines, codes 
of practice, and revised texts. This notice, which covers Codex 
activities during the time periods of June 1, 2022 to May 31, 2023 and 
June 1, 2023 to May 31, 2024, seeks comments on standards under 
consideration and recommendations for new standards.

DATES: Comments must be received on or before October 13, 2023.

ADDRESSES: The U.S. Codex Office (USCO) invites interested persons to 
submit their comments on this notice. Comments may be submitted by one 
of the following methods:
     Federal e-Rulemaking Portal: This website provides the 
ability to type short comments directly into the comment field on this 
web page or attach a file for lengthier comments. Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the on-line instructions at the website for 
submitting comments.
     Mail: Send to Docket Clerk, U.S. Department of 
Agriculture, Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, U.S. Codex Office, 
1400 Independence Avenue SW, Mailstop S4861, Washington, DC 20250-3700.
     Hand- or courier-delivered submittals: Deliver to 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Room 4861, Washington, DC 20250-3700.
    Instructions: All items submitted by mail or email are to include 
the Agency name (i.e., USCO) and docket number USDA-2023-0011. Comments 
received in response to this docket will be made available for public 
inspection and posted without change, including any personal 
information to https://www.regulations.gov.
    Please state that your comments refer to Codex. If your comments 
relate to specific Codex committees, please identify the committee(s) 
in your comments and submit a copy of your comments to the U.S. 
delegate to the committee.
    Docket: For access to background documents or comments received, 
email [email protected] to schedule an appointment.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ms. Mary Frances Lowe, United States 
Manager for Codex Alimentarius, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office 
of the Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, U.S. 
Codex Office, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Room 4861, Washington, DC 
20250-3700, Email: [email protected], Telephone: 202-205-7760.
    For information pertaining to committees, contact the U.S. delegate 
for that committee. A complete list of delegates and alternate 
delegates is accessible via the internet at: https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/us-codex-program-officials.pdf. Documents 
pertaining to Codex and specific committee agendas are accessible via 
the internet at https://www.fao.org/fao-who-codexalimentarius/meetings/en/. The U.S. Codex Office also maintains a website at https://www.usda.gov/codex, a link that offers an email subscription service 
providing access to information related to Codex. Customers can add or 
delete their subscription themselves and have the option to password 
protect their accounts.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Background

    The World Trade Organization (WTO) was established on January 1, 
1995, as the common international institutional framework for the 
conduct of trade relations among its members in matters related to the 
Uruguay Round Trade Agreements. The WTO is the successor organization 
to the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT). United States 
membership in the WTO was approved and the Uruguay Round Agreements Act 
(Uruguay Round Agreements) was signed into law by the President on 
December 8, 1994, Public Law 103-465, 108 Stat. 4809. The Uruguay Round 
Agreements became effective with respect to the United States on 
January 1, 1995. The Uruguay Round Agreements amended the Trade 
Agreements Act of 1979. Pursuant to section 491 of the Trade Agreements 
Act of 1979, as amended, the President is required to designate an 
agency to be ``responsible for informing the public of the sanitary and 
phytosanitary (SPS) standard-setting activities of each international 
standard-setting organization'' (19 U.S.C. 2578). The main 
international standard-setting organizations are the Codex Alimentarius 
(Codex), the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH, founded as 
OIE), and the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC). The 
President, pursuant to Proclamation No. 6780 of March 23, 1995, (60 FR 
15845), designated the U.S. Department of Agriculture as the agency 
responsible for informing the public of the SPS standard-setting 
activities of each international standard-setting organization. The 
Secretary of Agriculture has delegated to the Trade and Foreign 
Agricultural Affairs Mission Area the responsibility to inform the 
public of the SPS standard-setting activities of Codex. The Trade and 
Foreign Agricultural Affairs Mission Area has, in turn, assigned the 
responsibility for informing the public of the SPS standard-setting 
activities of Codex to the U.S. Codex Office (USCO).
    Codex was created in 1963 by two United Nations organizations, the 
Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Health 
Organization (WHO). Codex is the principal international organization 
for establishing standards for food. Through adoption of food 
standards, codes of practice, and other guidelines developed by its 
committees, and by promoting their adoption and implementation by 
governments, Codex seeks to protect the health of consumers, ensure 
fair practices in the food trade, and promote coordination of food 
standards work undertaken by international governmental and 
nongovernmental organizations. In the United States, U.S. Codex 
activities are managed and carried out by the United States Department 
of Agriculture (USDA); the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), 
Department of

[[Page 54291]]

Health and Human Services (HHS); the National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration (NOAA), Department of Commerce (DOC); and the 
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
    As the agency responsible for informing the public of the SPS 
standard-setting activities of Codex, the USCO publishes this notice in 
the Federal Register annually. Attachment 1: Sanitary and Phytosanitary 
Activities of Codex sets forth the following information:
    1. The SPS standards under consideration or planned for 
consideration; and
    2. For each SPS standard specified:
    a. A description of the consideration or planned consideration of 
the standard
    b. Whether the United States is participating or plans to 
participate in the consideration of the standard
    c. The agenda for United States participation, if any; and
    d. The agency responsible for representing the United States with 
respect to the standard.
    To obtain copies of the standards listed in Attachment 1: Sanitary 
and Phytosanitary Activities of Codex, please contact the U.S. delegate 
or the U.S. Codex Office.
    This notice also solicits public comment on standards that are 
currently under consideration or planned for consideration and 
recommendations for new standards. The U.S. delegate, in conjunction 
with the responsible agency, will take the comments received into 
account in participating in the consideration of the standards and in 
proposing matters to be considered by Codex.
    The U.S. delegate will facilitate public participation in the 
United States Government's activities relating to Codex. The U.S. 
delegate will maintain a list of individuals, groups, and organizations 
that have expressed an interest in the activities of the Codex 
committees and will disseminate information regarding U.S. delegation 
activities to interested parties. This information will include the 
status of each agenda item; the U.S. Government's position or 
preliminary position on each agenda item; and the time and place of 
planning meetings and debriefing meetings following the Codex committee 
sessions. In addition, the USCO makes much of the same information 
available through its web page at https://www.usda.gov/codex. If you 
would like to access or receive information about specific committees, 
please visit the web page or notify the appropriate U.S. delegate or 
the U.S. Codex Office, Room 4861, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, 
Washington, DC 20250-3700, Email: [email protected].
    The information provided in Attachment 1: Sanitary and 
Phytosanitary Activities of Codex describes the status of Codex 
standard-setting activities by the Codex committees for the time 
periods from June 1, 2022 to May 31, 2023 and June 1, 2023 to May 31, 
2024. A list of forthcoming Codex sessions may be found at: https://www.fao.org/fao-who-codexalimentarius/meetings/en/.

Additional Public Notification

    Public awareness of all segments of rulemaking and policy 
development is important. Consequently, the USCO will announce this 
Federal Register publication on-line through the U.S. Codex web page 
located at: https://www.federalregister.gov/agencies/us-codex-office.

    Done at Washington, DC.
Mary Frances Lowe,
U.S. Manager for Codex Alimentarius.

Attachment 1: Sanitary and Phytosanitary Activities of Codex

Codex Alimentarius Commission and Executive Committee

    The Codex Alimentarius Commission (Commission or CAC) convened its 
45th Session (CAC45) from November 21-25, 2022, in Rome, Italy, with 
report adoption taking place virtually on December 12-13, 2022 and 
continued by written procedure. The relevant document is REP22/CAC. The 
actions taken by the Commission at CAC45 (e.g., adoption and revocation 
of standards, approval of new work, discontinuation of work, 
amendments, etc.) are described below under the respective Codex 
committees.
    The Commission is scheduled to convene its 46th Session (CAC46) 
from November 27 to December 2, 2023. At its 46th Session, the 
Commission will consider adopting standards recommended by committees 
at Step 8 or 5/8 (final adoption) and advance the work of committees by 
adopting draft standards at Step 5 (interim adoption, for further 
comment and consideration by the relevant committee). The Commission 
will also consider revocation of Codex texts; proposals for new work; 
discontinuation of work; amendments to Codex standards and related 
texts; and matters arising from the Reports of the Commission, the 
Executive Committee, and subsidiary bodies. Although the agenda for the 
46th Session is not yet available, it is expected that the Commission 
will also consider Codex budgetary and financial matters; FAO/WHO 
scientific support to Codex (activities, budgetary and financial 
matters); matters arising from FAO/WHO; reports of side events; 
election of the chairperson and vice-chairpersons and members of the 
Executive Committee elected on a geographical basis; designation of 
countries responsible for appointing the chairpersons of Codex 
subsidiary bodies; any other business; and adoption of the report.
    The Executive Committee (CCEXEC) is composed of the Commission 
chairperson; vice-chairpersons; seven members elected by the Commission 
from each of the following geographic regions: Africa, Asia, Europe, 
Latin America and the Caribbean, Near East, North America, and the 
South West Pacific; and regional coordinators from the six regional 
coordinating committees. The United States currently participates as an 
advisor to Canada, the member elected on a geographical basis from 
North America.
    CCEXEC convened its 82nd Session (CCEXEC82) virtually June 20-24, 
2022, with virtual report adoption on June 30, 2022. The relevant 
document is REP22/EXEC1. CCEXEC82 conducted Critical Review of the 
standards development work of the Codex Committees on Fats and Oils 
(CCFO), Nutrition and Foods for Special Dietary Uses (CCNFSDU), Food 
Hygiene (CCFH), and Residues of Veterinary Drugs in Foods (CCRVDF). 
CCEXEC82 also considered the progress of three Sub-Committees concerned 
with (1) the development of practical guidance on the application of 
the Statements of Principle concerning the Role of Science in the Codex 
decision-making process and the extent to which other factors are taken 
into account, (2) new food sources and production systems, and (3) a 
model for future Codex work; reviewed and made recommendations to the 
Directors General of FAO and WHO on applications from international 
non-governmental organizations for observer status in Codex; and 
discussed the status of work under the Codex Strategic Plan 2020-2025 
and plans for commemorating the 60th Anniversary of the CAC in 2023. 
The report and recommendations of CCEXEC82 were considered by the Codex 
Alimentarius Commission at its 45th Session (CAC45, November 2022).
    CCEXEC convened its 83rd Session (CCEXEC83) from November 14 to 18, 
2022, in Rome, Italy. The relevant document is REP22/EXEC2. In addition 
to making recommendations to CAC45 on the work of Codex committees, 
CCEXEC83 discussed practical guidance

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on the application of the Statements of Principle concerning the Role 
of Science in the Codex decision-making process and the extent to which 
other factors are taken into account; new food sources and production 
systems; the Future of Codex; the Codex Strategic Plan 2020-2025; and 
the 60th anniversary of the Commission.
    CCEXEC convened its 84th Session (CCEXEC84) from July 10-14, 2023, 
in Geneva, Switzerland. The relevant document is REP23/EXEC1. In 
addition to discussing recommendations to CAC46 on the work of Codex 
committees, CCEXEC84 discussed the Blueprint on the Future of Codex; 
recommendations on the Future of Codex in the context of 60th 
anniversary celebrations; monitoring the implementation of the Codex 
Strategic Plan 2020-2023; and plans for the development of the Codex 
Strategic Plan for 2026-2031. The Executive Committee also considered 
the following agenda items: applications from international non-
governmental organizations for observer status in Codex; and regional 
standards. The Executive Committee agenda for the 85th Session 
(CCEXEC85, November 2023) is not yet available.
    Responsible Agency: USDA/TFAA/USCO.
    U.S. Participation: Yes, as advisor to Canada (current CCEXEC 
member elected on a geographical basis from North America).

Codex Committee on Contaminants in Foods

    The Codex Committee on Contaminants in Foods (CCCF) establishes or 
endorses permitted maximum levels (MLs) and guideline levels (GLs) for 
contaminants and naturally occurring toxicants in food and feed; 
prepares priority lists of contaminants and naturally occurring 
toxicants for risk assessment by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on 
Food Additives (JECFA); considers and elaborates methods of analysis 
and sampling for the determination of contaminants and naturally 
occurring toxicants in food and feed; considers and elaborates 
standards or codes of practice for related subjects; and considers 
other matters assigned to it by the Commission in relation to 
contaminants and naturally occurring toxicants in food and feed.
    The Committee had the following items which were considered and 
approved by the 45th Session of the Codex Alimentarius Commission 
(CAC45) in November 2022:
Final Adoption at Step 8 or Step 5/8
 Code of Practice for the Prevention and Reduction of Cadmium 
Contamination in Cocoa Beans (CXC 81-2022)
 ML for cadmium in cocoa powder (100% cocoa solids on a dry 
matter basis)
 MLs for lead in cereal-based foods for infants and young 
children, white and refined sugar, corn and maple syrups, honey and 
sugar-based candies
 MLs for methylmercury in orange roughy and pink cusk eel
 MLs for total aflatoxins (AFT) in maize grain, destined for 
further processing; flour meal, semolina and flakes derived from maize; 
husked rice; polished rice; sorghum grain, destined for further 
processing; cereal-based food for infants and young children (excluding 
foods for food aid programs); and cereal-based food for infants and 
young children for food aid programs
Interim Adoption at Step 5
 ML for lead in ready-to-eat meals for infants and young 
children
 Draft Code of Practice for Prevention and Reduction of 
Mycotoxin Contamination in Cassava and Cassava-Based Products
Discontinuation
 Work on MLs for lead in fresh eggs, dried garlic, and molasses

    The CCCF convened its 16th Session (CCCF16) from April 17-21, 2023, 
in Utrecht, Netherlands, with report adoption taking place virtually on 
April 26, 2023. The relevant document is REP23/CF16. CCCF16 advanced 
the following items for consideration by the CAC46 in November 2023:
For final adoption at Step 8 and Step 5/8
 MLs for lead for soft brown, raw, and non-centrifugal sugars
 MLs for lead for ready-to-eat meals for infants and young 
children
 Code of Practice for Prevention and Reduction of Mycotoxin 
Contamination in Cassava and Cassava-Based Products
 Sampling plans for total aflatoxins in certain cereals and 
cereal-based products including foods for infants and young children
 MLs for Ochratoxin A (OTA) in chili pepper, paprika and 
nutmeg; and
 MLs for total aflatoxins (AFT) in chili pepper and nutmeg
For Approval as New Work
 Code of Practice/Guidelines for the Prevention or Reduction of 
Ciguatera Poisoning
For Discontinuation
 Work on AFT in ginger, paprika, black and white pepper, and 
turmeric.

    The CCCF is scheduled to convene its 17th session (CCCF17) from 
April 15-19, 2024. The CCCF17 location and agenda are currently 
unavailable.
    The Committee is expected to continue working on:

 ML for total aflatoxins in ready to-eat (RTE) peanuts and 
associated sampling plan (definition of RTE peanuts)
 Sampling plans for OTA and AFT (chili pepper, paprika, and 
nutmeg)
 New work on a Code of Practice/Guidelines for the prevention 
or reduction of ciguatera poisoning
 Discussion paper on pyrrolizidine alkaloids
 Discussion paper on new measures supporting the revision of 
the Code of Practice for the Prevention and Reduction of Aflatoxin 
Contamination in Peanuts (CXC 55-2004)
 Discussion paper on new measures supporting the revision of 
the Code of Practice for the Reduction of Aflatoxin B1 in Raw Materials 
and Supplemental Feeding Stuffs for Milk-Producing Animals (CXC 45-
1997)
 Discussion paper on the need and feasibility of possible 
follow up actions on tropane alkaloids
 Discussion paper on possible risk management measure(s) for 
acrylamide in foods, taking into account the most recent JECFA 
evaluations
 Discussion paper on the development of a Code of Practice for 
the Prevention and Reduction of Cadmium Contamination in Foods
 General guidance on data analysis for development of maximum 
levels and improved data collection
 Review of Codex standards for contaminants
 Follow-up work to the outcomes of JECFA evaluations and FAO/
WHO expert consultations
 Reconsider the opportunity to develop discussion papers on the 
need and feasibility of possible follow-up actions on ergot alkaloids 
and trichothecenes (T-2, HT-2 and DAS)
 Priority list of contaminants for evaluation by JECFA

    Responsible Agencies: HHS/FDA; USDA/Food Safety and Inspection 
Service (FSIS).
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Fats and Oils

    The Codex Committee on Fats and Oils (CCFO) is responsible for 
elaborating worldwide standards for fats

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and oils of animal, vegetable, and marine origin, including margarine 
and olive oil.
    The Committee had the following items which were considered and 
approved by CAC45 in November 2022:
Final Adoption at Step 8 and Step 5/8
 Revision to the Standard for Named Vegetable Oils (CXS 210-
1999): Essential composition of sunflower seed oils
Interim Adoption at Step 5
 Draft revision to the Standard for Named Vegetable Oils (CXS 
210-1999): Inclusion of avocado oil
Approved as New Work
 Amendment/revision to the Standard for Named Vegetable Oils 
(CXS 210-1999) to include camellia seed oil; sacha inchi oil; and high 
oleic acid soya bean oil
 Amendment/revision to the Standard for Fish Oils (CXS 329-
2017) to include Calanus oil

    The CCFO is scheduled to convene for its 23rd Session (CCFO23) from 
February 19-23, 2024, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The CCFO23 agenda is 
currently unavailable.
    The Committee is expected to continue work on:

 Amendment/Revision of the Standard for Named Vegetable Oils 
(CXS 210-1999): inclusion of avocado oil
 Revision of the Standard for Olive Oils and Pomace Olive Oils 
(CXS 33-1981)
 Amendment/Revision of the Standard for Named Vegetable Oils 
(CXS 210-1999): inclusion of camellia seed oil
 Amendment/Revision of the Standard for Named Vegetable Oils 
(CXS 210-1999): inclusion of sacha inchi oil
 Amendment/Revision of the Standard for Named Vegetable Oils 
(CXS 210-1999): inclusion of high oleic acid soya bean oil
 Amendment/Revision of the Standard for Fish Oils (CXS 329-
2017): inclusion of Calanus oil
 Consideration of proposals on new substances to be added to 
the List of Acceptable Previous Cargoes

    Responsible Agencies: HHS/FDA/Center for Food Safety and Applied 
Nutrition (CFSAN); USDA/Agricultural Research Service (ARS).
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Fish and Fishery Products

    The Committee on Fish and Fishery Products (CCFFP) is responsible 
for elaborating standards for fresh, frozen, and otherwise processed 
fish, crustaceans, and mollusks. The CCFFP is working by correspondence 
and is expected to complete its pending work by October 1, 2023.
The Committee is working on:

 The Standard for Canned Sardines and Sardine-Type Products 
(CXS 94-1981), inclusion of the fish species S. lemuru (Bali 
Sardinella) in the list of Sardinella species under Section 2.1

    Responsible Agencies: HHS/FDA; DOC/NOAA/National Marine Fisheries 
Service (NMFS).
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Food Additives

    The Codex Committee on Food Additives (CCFA) establishes or 
endorses acceptable MLs for individual food additives; prepares a 
priority list of food additives for risk assessment by the JECFA; 
assigns functional classes to individual food additives; recommends 
specifications of identity and purity for food additives for adoption 
by the Codex Alimentarius Commission; considers methods of analysis for 
the determination of additives in food; and considers and elaborates 
standards or codes of practice for related subjects such as the 
labeling of food additives when sold as such.
    The CCFA convened its 53rd Session (CCFA53) from March 27-31, 2023, 
in Hong Kong, China. The relevant document is REP23/FA. CCFA53 advanced 
the following items for consideration by the CAC46 in November 2023:
For Final Adoption at Step 8 and Step 5/8
 Inclusion of the provision for trisodium citrate (INS 
331(iii)) in FC 01.1.1 in the General Standard for Food Additives 
(GSFA) (CXS 192-1995)
 Inclusion of the provisions for food additives in FC 14.2.3 
(CXS 192-1995)
 Inclusion of the provisions for riboflavin, synthetic (INS 
101(i)), riboflavin 5'-phosphate sodium (INS 101(ii)), riboflavin from 
Bacillus subtilis (INS 101(iii)), riboflavin from Ashbya gossypii (INS 
101(iv)) and spirulina extract (INS 134) in Table 3 (CXS 192-1995)
 Proposed draft revision of the Class Names and the 
International Numbering System for Food Additives (CXG 36-1989)
 Proposed draft Specifications for the Identity and Purity of 
Food Additives (CXA 6-2021)

    The CCFA is scheduled to convene its 54th Session (CCFA54) from 
April 22-26, 2024. The CCFA54 agenda is currently unavailable.
    The Committee is expected to continue work on:

 The alignment and the endorsement of food-additive provisions 
referred by commodity committees
 New or revised provisions of the GSFA
 Revision of the Class Names and the International Numbering 
System for Food Additives (CXG 36-1989)
 Proposal for additions and changes to the Priority List of 
Substances proposed for evaluation by JECFA
 Mapping food categories of the GFSA to the FoodEx2 Database
 Discussion paper on the development of a standard for yeast
 Discussion paper to identify the outstanding issues with 
respect to avoiding future divergence between the GSFA, commodity 
standards and other texts
    Responsible Agency: HHS/FDA/CFSAN.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Food Hygiene

    The Codex Committee on Food Hygiene (CCFH) is responsible for 
developing basic provisions on food hygiene applicable to all food; 
considering and amending or endorsing provisions on food hygiene 
contained in Codex commodity standards and Codex codes of practice 
developed by other committees; considering specific food hygiene 
problems assigned to it by the Commission; suggesting and prioritizing 
areas where there is a need for microbiological risk assessment at the 
international level and developing questions to be addressed by the 
risk assessors; and considering microbiological risk management matters 
in relation to food hygiene and in relation to the FAO/WHO risk 
assessments.
    The Committee had the following items which were considered and 
approved by the CAC45 in November 2022:
Final Adoption at Step 8
 Guidelines on the Management of Biological Foodborne Outbreaks 
(CXG 96-2022)
 Proposed draft Decision Tree as an Annex to the General 
Principles of Food Hygiene (CXC 1-1969)

    The CCFH convened its 53rd Session (CCFH53) from November 27-
December 2, 2022, in San Diego, California, with report adoption taking 
place virtually on December 8, 2022. The relevant document is REP 23/
FH. CCFH53 advanced the following items for consideration by the CAC46 
in November 2023:

[[Page 54294]]

For Final Adoption at Step 5/8
 Draft Guidelines for the Control of Shiga Toxin-Producing 
Escherichia coli (STEC) in Raw Beef, Fresh Leafy Vegetables, Raw Milk 
and Raw Milk Cheeses, and Sprouts (General Section, Annex I on Raw 
Beef, and Annex III on Raw Milk and Raw Milk Cheeses)
 Draft Guidelines for the Safe Use and Reuse of Water in Food 
Production and Processing (General Section and Annex I on Fresh 
Produce)
For Approval as New Work
 Revision of the Guidelines on the Application of General 
Principles of Food Hygiene to the Control of Pathogenic Vibrio Species 
in Seafood (CXG-73-2010)
 Guidelines for Food Hygiene Control Measures in Traditional 
Markets for Food

    The CCFH is scheduled to convene its 54th Session (CCFH54) from 
March 11-15, 2024, in Nairobi, Kenya. The CCFH54 agenda is currently 
unavailable.
    The Committee is expected to continue work on:

 Proposed Draft Guidelines for the Control of Shiga Toxin-
Producing Escherichia coli (STEC) in Raw Beef, Raw Milk and Raw Milk 
Cheeses, Fresh Leafy Vegetables, and Sprouts: (Annex II on Fresh Leafy 
Vegetables and Annex IV on Sprouts)
 Proposed Draft Guidelines for the Safe Use and Reuse of Water 
in Food Production: Annex II on Fisheries and Annex III on Dairy 
Products)
 Proposed Draft Guidelines for Food Hygiene Control Measures in 
Traditional Markets for Food
 Revision of the Guidelines on the Application of General 
Principles of Food Hygiene to the Control of Pathogenic Vibrio Species 
in Seafood (CXG 73-2010)
 Alignment of other CCFH documents with the revised General 
Principles of Food Hygiene (CXC 1-1969)
 Discussion paper on revision of the Guidelines on the 
Application of General Principles of Food Hygiene to the Control of 
Viruses in Food (CXG 79-2012)
 Discussion paper on revision of the Guidelines for the Control 
of Campylobacter and Salmonella in Chicken Meat (CXG 78-2011)
 Discussion paper on revision of the Guidelines on the 
Application of General Principles of Food Hygiene to the Control of 
Listeria monocytogenes in Foods (CXG 61-2007)
 New work proposals/forward workplan

    Responsible Agencies: HHS/FDA/CFSAN; USDA/FSIS.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Food Import and Export Inspection and Certification 
Systems

    The Codex Committee on Food Import and Export Inspection and 
Certification Systems (CCFICS) is responsible for developing principles 
and guidelines for food import and export inspection and certification 
systems, with a view to harmonizing methods and procedures that protect 
the health of consumers, ensure fair trading practices, and facilitate 
international trade in foodstuffs; developing 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; developing guidelines for the 
utilization, as and when appropriate, of quality assurance systems to 
ensure that foodstuffs conform with requirements and promote the 
recognition of these systems in facilitating trade in food products 
under bilateral/multilateral arrangements by countries; developing 
guidelines and criteria with respect to format, declarations, and 
language of such official certificates as countries may require with a 
view towards international harmonization; making recommendations for 
information exchange in relation to food import/export control; 
consulting as necessary with other international groups working on 
matters related to food inspection and certification systems; and 
considering other matters assigned to it by the Commission in relation 
to food inspection and certification systems.
    The Committee had the following item which was considered and 
approved by the CAC45 in November 2022:
Approved as New Work

 Development of principles and guidelines on the use of remote 
audit and verification in regulatory frameworks

    The CCFICS convened its 26th Session from May 1-5, 2023, in Hobart, 
Tasmania, Australia. The relevant document is REP 23/FICS. The 
Committee advanced the following items for consideration by the CAC46 
in November 2023:
For Final Adoption at Step 8 and Step 5/8

 Proposed draft guidelines on recognition and maintenance of 
equivalence of national food control systems (NFCS)
 Proposed draft principles and guidelines on the use of remote 
audit and inspection in regulatory frameworks
For Approval as New Work

 Project document for the on review and update of the 
Principles for Traceability/Product Tracing as a Tool within a Food 
Inspection and Certification System (CXG 60-2006)

    The CCFICS is scheduled to convene its 27th Session (CCFICS27) from 
September 16-20, 2024, in Australia. The CCFICS27 agenda is currently 
unavailable.
    The Committee is expected to continue work on:

 Development of guidance on the prevention and control of food 
fraud
 Proposed draft consolidated Codex guidelines related to 
equivalence
 Reviewing and updating the list of emerging global issues
 Review and update of the Principles for Traceability/Product 
Tracing as a Tool Within a Food Inspection and Certification System 
(CXG 60-2006)
 Discussion paper and project document on guidance on appeals 
mechanisms in the context of rejection of imported food
 Discussion paper and project document on the standardization 
of sanitary requirements

    Responsible Agencies: USDA/FSIS; HHS/FDA/CFSAN.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Food Labelling

    The Codex Committee on Food Labelling (CCFL) drafts provisions on 
labeling applicable to all foods; considers, amends, and endorses draft 
specific provisions on labeling prepared by the Codex committees 
drafting standards, codes of practice, and guidelines; and studies 
specific labeling problems assigned to it by the Codex Alimentarius 
Commission. The Committee also studies problems associated with the 
advertisement of food with particular reference to claims and 
misleading descriptions.
    The CCFL convened its 47th Session (CCFL47) from May 15-19, 2023, 
in Gatineau (Ottawa), Canada. The relevant document is REP23/FL. 
CCCFL47 advanced the following items for consideration by the CAC46 in 
November 2023:

[[Page 54295]]

For Interim Adoption at Step 5

 Proposed draft revision to the General Standard for the 
Labelling of Pre-packaged Foods (CXS 1-1985): provisions relevant to 
allergen labelling
 Proposed draft Guidelines on the Provision of Food Information 
for Pre-packaged Foods to be Offered Via E-Commerce
 Proposed draft Guidelines on the Use of Technology to Provide 
Food Information
For approval as new work:
 Amendments to the General Standard for the Labelling of 
Prepackaged Foods (CXS 1-1985): labelling of prepackaged foods in joint 
presentation and multipack formats

    In addition, CCFL47 endorsed labeling provisions in standards 
developed by other Codex committees, including the Codex Committee on 
Fresh Fruits and Vegetables (CCFFV); the Codex Committee on Spices and 
Culinary Herbs (CCSCH); and the Codex Coordinating Committee for Asia 
(CCASIA). For the Standard for Dried Floral Parts--Saffron, CCFL47 
agreed to endorse all labeling provisions except those on country of 
origin and country of harvest, referring these two provisions back to 
the CCSCH for reconsideration.
    The CCFL is scheduled to convene its 48th session (CCFL48) from 
October 28 to November 1, 2024, in Ottawa, Canada. The CCFL48 agenda is 
currently unavailable.
    The Committee is expected to continue work on:

 Proposed draft Guidelines on the Provision of Food Information 
for Pre-packaged Foods to be Offered via E-Commerce
 Proposed draft revision to the General Standard for the 
Labelling of Prepackaged Foods (CXS 1-1985): Provisions relevant to 
allergen labeling and guidelines on precautionary allergen labeling
 Proposed draft Guidelines on the Use of Technology to Provide 
Food Information
 Discussion Paper on the Labelling of alcoholic beverages
 Redrafting of the Discussion Paper on the Application of food 
labelling provisions in emergencies
 Discussion Paper on Trans Fatty Acids (TFA)
 Redrafted Discussion Paper on Sustainability Labelling Claims: 
Revision to the General Guidelines on Claims (CXG 1-1979)
 Discussion Paper on the Definition for Added Sugars
 Update to the Discussion Paper on Future work and Direction of 
CCFL and Criteria for the evaluation and prioritization of work of CCFL

    Responsible Agencies: HHS/FDA/CFSAN; USDA/FSIS.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Fresh Fruits and Vegetables

    The Codex Committee on Fresh Fruits and Vegetables (CCFFV) is 
responsible for elaborating worldwide standards and codes of practice, 
as may be appropriate, for fresh fruits and vegetables, consulting as 
necessary, with other international organizations in the standards 
development process to avoid duplication.
    The Committee had the following items which were considered and 
approved by the CAC45 in November 2022:
Final Adoption at Step 5/8
 Standard for onions and shallots (CXS 348-2022)
 Standard for berry fruits (not yet published; document number 
not yet assigned) Interim adoption at Step 5
 Proposed draft standard for fresh dates
Approved as New Work
 New regional standard for Castilla lulo (approved to be 
undertaken as a regional standard by the Regional Coordinating 
Committee for Latin America and the Caribbean)
 New standard for fresh curry leaves

    In addition, the Committee agreed to the following item for 
internal use by the Committee:

 Glossary of terms used in the layout for Codex standards for 
fresh fruits and vegetables

    The date and location of the 23rd Session of the CCFFV (CCFFV23) 
have not yet been determined. The CCFFV23 agenda is currently 
unavailable.
    The Committee is expected to continue work on:

 New work proposals
 Draft standard for fresh dates
 Draft standard for fresh curry leaves

    Responsible Agencies: USDA/Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS), 
HHS/FDA/CFSAN.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on General Principles

    The Codex Committee on General Principles (CCGP) is responsible for 
procedural and general matters referred to it by the Codex Alimentarius 
Commission, including: (a) The review or endorsement of procedural 
provisions/texts forwarded by other subsidiary bodies for inclusion in 
the Procedural Manual of the Codex Alimentarius Commission; and (b) The 
consideration and recommendation of other amendments to the Procedural 
Manual.
    The 33rd Session of the CCGP (CCGP33) is scheduled for October 2-6, 
2023, in Bordeaux, France.
    The Committee is expected to discuss:

 Revisions/amendments to Codex texts
 Format and structure of the Codex Procedural Manual
 Review and possible amendments to the rules of procedure on 
Sessions of the Commission
 Review and possible amendment of the Principles concerning the 
participation of international non-governmental organizations in the 
work of the Codex Alimentarius Commission

    Responsible Agencies: USDA/TFAA/USCO
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Methods of Analysis and Sampling

    The Codex Committee on Methods of Analysis and Sampling (CCMAS) 
defines the criteria appropriate to Codex Methods of Analysis and 
Sampling; serves as a coordinating body for Codex with other 
international groups working on methods of analysis and sampling and 
quality assurance systems for laboratories; specifies, on the basis of 
final recommendations submitted to it by the bodies referred to above, 
reference methods of analysis and sampling appropriate to Codex 
standards which are generally applicable to a number of foods; 
considers, amends if necessary, and endorses as appropriate, methods of 
analysis and sampling proposed by Codex (commodity) committees, except 
for those methods of analysis and sampling for residues of pesticides 
or veterinary drugs in food, the assessment of microbiological quality 
and safety in food, and the assessment of specifications for food 
additives; elaborates sampling plans and procedures, as may be 
required; considers specific sampling and analysis problems submitted 
to it by the Commission or any committees; and defines procedures, 
protocols, guidelines or related texts for the assessment of food 
laboratory proficiency, as well as quality assurance systems for 
laboratories.
    The CCMAS convened its 42nd Session (CCMAS42) from June 12-16, 
2023, in Budapest, Hungary, with virtual report adoption on June 20, 
2023. The relevant document is REP23/

[[Page 54296]]

MAS. The Committee advanced the following items for consideration at 
the CAC46 in November 2023:
For Final Adoption at Step 8

 Revised Guideline on Measurement Uncertainty (CXG 54-2004)
For Revocation

 General Standard for Methods for Contaminants (CXS 228-2001)

    The CCMAS is scheduled to convene its 43rd Session CCMAS43 from May 
13-17, 2024, in Budapest, Hungary. The CCMAS43 agenda is currently 
unavailable.
    The Committee is expected to continue work on:

 Amendments to certain provisions in Recommended Methods of 
Analysis and Sampling (CXS 234-1999)
 Review of methods for fish and fishery products and fruit 
juices

    Responsible Agencies: HHS/FDA/CFSAN; USDA/AMS.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Nutrition and Foods for Special Dietary Uses

    The Codex Committee on Nutrition and Foods for Special Dietary Uses 
(CCNFSDU) is responsible for studying nutrition issues referred to it 
by the Codex Alimentarius Commission. The Committee also drafts general 
provisions, as appropriate, on nutritional aspects of all foods and 
develops standards, guidelines, or related texts for foods for special 
dietary uses in cooperation with other committees where necessary; 
considers, amends if necessary, and endorses provisions on nutritional 
aspects proposed for inclusion in Codex standards, guidelines, and 
related texts.
    The Committee had the following item which was considered and 
approved by the CAC45 in November 2022:
Final Adoption at Step 8

 Guidelines for Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Foods (RUTF)

    The CCNFSDU convened its 43rd Session (CCNFSDU43) from March 7-10, 
2023, in Dusseldorf, Germany, with virtual report adoption on March 15, 
2023. The relevant document is REP23/NFSDU. CCNFSDU43 advanced the 
following items for consideration by the CAC46 in November 2023:
For Final Adoption at Step 8 and Step 5/8

 Revised Standard for Follow-up Formula (renamed as the 
Standard for Follow-up Formula for Older Infants and Product for Young 
Children) (CXS156-1987)
For Interim Adoption at Step 5

 General Principles for establishing Nutrient Reference Values 
(NRVs-R) for persons aged 6 to 36 months
    The CCNFSDU is scheduled to convene its 44th Session (CCNFSDU44) 
from October 2-6, 2024. The CCNFSDU44 location and agenda are currently 
unavailable.
    The Committee is expected to continue work on:

 General Principles for the Establishment of Nutrient Reference 
Values-Requirements (NRVs-R) for persons aged 6-36 months
 Collection and review of information on the use and use levels 
for five identified additives and their technological justification
 Redrafting of the prioritization mechanism/emerging issues for 
new work proposals
 Redrafting a revised Discussion Paper on harmonized probiotic 
guidelines
 Redrafting the Discussion Paper on Guidelines including 
General Principles for the Nutritional Composition of Foods and 
Beverages made from Plant-based and other Alternative Protein Sources

    Responsible Agencies: HHS/FDA/CFSAN; USDA/ARS.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Pesticide Residues

    The Codex Committee on Pesticide Residues (CCPR) is responsible for 
establishing maximum residue limits (MRLs) for pesticide residues in 
specific food items or in groups of food; establishing MRLs for 
pesticide residues in certain animal feeding stuffs moving in 
international trade where this is justified for reasons of protection 
of human health; preparing priority lists of pesticides for evaluation 
by the Joint FAO/WHO Meeting on Pesticide Residues (JMPR); considering 
methods of sampling and analysis for the determination of pesticide 
residues in food and feed; considering other matters in relation to the 
safety of food and feed containing pesticide residues; and establishing 
maximum limits for environmental and industrial contaminants showing 
chemical or other similarity to pesticides in specific food items or 
groups of food.
    The Committee had the following items which were considered and 
approved by the CAC45 in November 2022:
Final Adoption at Step 8 and 5/8
 Over 300 Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) for different 
combinations of pesticides/commodities
 Guidelines for the recognition of active substances or 
authorized uses of active substances of low public health concern that 
are considered exempted from the establishment of Codex maximum residue 
limits (MRLs) or do not give rise to residues
 Revision of Classification of Food and Feed (CXA 4-1989): 
definitions for edible offal, fat, meat, and muscle, including the 
definitions for the portion of the commodity to which MRLs apply and 
which is analyzed for fat and muscle; consequential amendment to Class 
D, Processed Food of Plant Origin; inclusion of additional commodities 
for citrus fruits pulps (dried) and oils (edible) and soya flour

    The CAC45 also discontinued work, approved new work, and revoked 
existing MRLs as recommended by CCPR53, and noted the discontinuation 
of discussion of review of the international estimated short-term 
intake (IESTI) equations.
    The CCPR convened its 54th Session (CCPR54) in Beijing, China from 
June 26-July 1, 2023. The relevant document is REP23/PR. CCPR54 
advanced the following items for consideration by the CAC46 in November 
2023:
For final adoption at Step 8 and 5/8

 Over 400 Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) for different 
combinations of pesticides/commodities
 Revision of the Classification of Food and Feed (CXA 4-1989):
    [cir] the revised Class B- Primary food commodities of animal 
origin and Class E -Processed Foods of Animal Origin (All Types) and 
their respective table of representative commodities;
    [cir] the consequential amendment to Table 2, Subgroup 12C Eggplant 
and eggplant-like commodities to the Principles and Guidance on the 
Selection of Representative Commodities for the Extrapolation of MRLs 
for Pesticides to Commodity Groups (CXG 84-2012);
    [cir] the consequential amendment to the revised definition for the 
portion of the commodity to which MRLs apply and which is analyzed for 
Group 006--Tropical Fruits of Inedible Peel and 023--Oil fruits; and
    [cir] the consequential amendments to the inclusion of new 
commodities/commodity codes in Class A--Primary food commodities of 
plant

[[Page 54297]]

origin and Class D--Processed commodities of plant origin
For Revocation

 The Guidelines on Portion of Commodities to which MRLs Apply 
and which is Analyzed (CXG 41-1993), noting that the Classification of 
Food and Animal Feeds (CXA 4-1989) should be the single, authoritative 
reference of food and feed for the establishment of MRLs for pesticides
For Approval as New Work

 Guidance for monitoring the purity and stability of reference 
materials of multi-class pesticides during prolonged storage

    The CAC46 will also consider discontinuation of work and revocation 
of existing MRLs as recommended by CCPR54.
    The CCPR is scheduled to convene its 55th Session (CCPR55) from 
June 3-8, 2024, in China. The CCPR55 agenda is currently unavailable.
    The Committee is expected to continue work on:

 Coordination of work between CCPR and CCRVDF: Joint CCPR/
CCRVDF Working Group on Compounds for Dual Use
 National registration of pesticides
 Management of unsupported compounds without public health 
concern scheduled for periodic review
 Establishment of Codex schedules and priority lists of 
pesticides for evaluation/re-evaluation by JMPR
 Enhancement of the operational procedures of CCPR and JMPR

    Responsible Agencies: EPA/Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution 
Prevention (OCSPP)/Office of Pesticide Programs (OPP); USDA/FSIS.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Residues of Veterinary Drugs in Foods

    The Codex Committee on Residues of Veterinary Drugs in Foods 
(CCRVDF) determines priorities for the consideration of residues of 
veterinary drugs in foods and recommends MRLs for veterinary drugs. The 
Committee also develops codes of practice, as may be required, and 
considers methods of sampling and analysis for the determination of 
veterinary drug residues in food.
    The Committee had the following item which was considered and 
approved by the CAC45 in November 2022:
Interim Adoption at Step 5

 MRLs for zilpaterol hydrochloride (cattle kidney, liver, 
muscle)

    The CCRVDF convened its 26th Session (CCRVDF26) from February 13-
17, 2023, in Portland, Oregon. The relevant document is REP23/RVDF. 
CCRVDF26 advanced the following items for consideration at the CAC46 in 
November 2023:
For Final Adoption at Step 8 and 5/8

 57 maximum residue limits (MRLs) for 13 veterinary drugs
For Approval

 Priority List of veterinary drugs requiring evaluation or re-
evaluation by JECFA

    The CCRVDF is scheduled to convene its 27th Session (CCRVDF27) from 
October 21-25, 2024. The CCRVDF27 location, and agenda are currently 
unavailable.
    The Committee is expected to continue work on:

 Extrapolation of MRLs between species and to edible offal 
tissues
 Establishment of action levels for residues of veterinary 
drugs in edible tissues caused by unavoidable and unintended carryover 
of veterinary drug residues in animal feed
 Coordination between CCRVDF and CCPR on issues affecting both 
committees (e.g., harmonization of MRLs for similar edible commodities 
of animal origin; harmonization of risk assessment methodologies; data-
sharing for dual-use compounds)
 Priority List of veterinary drugs requiring evaluation or re-
evaluation by JECFA

    Responsible Agencies: HHS/FDA/Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM); 
USDA/FSIS.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Spices and Culinary Herbs

    The Codex Committee on Spices and Culinary Herbs (CCSCH) is 
responsible for elaborating worldwide standards for spices and culinary 
herbs in their dried and dehydrated state in whole, ground, and cracked 
or crushed form. CCSCH also consults, as necessary, with other 
international organizations in the standards development process to 
avoid duplication.
    The CCSCH convened its 6th Session (CCSCH6) virtually from 
September 26 to October 10, 2022. The relevant document is REP22/SCH. 
The Committee had the following items which were considered and 
approved by the CAC45 in November 2022:
Final Adoption at Step 8

 Standard for Dried Floral Parts--Saffron (not yet published)
 Standard for Dried Seeds--Nutmeg (CXS 352-202)
 Standard for Dried or Dehydrated Chili Pepper and Paprika (not 
yet published)
 Amendments to the labelling provisions for non-retail 
containers in the eight existing spices and culinary herb (SCH) 
standards, for consistency with the new General Standard for the 
Labelling of Non-Retail Containers of Foods (CXS 346-2021)
Interim Adoption at Step 5
 Proposed draft standard for dried small cardamom
 Proposed draft group standard for spices in the form of dried 
fruits and berries (allspice, juniper berry, star anise and vanilla)


    The CCSCH is scheduled to convene its 7th Session (CCSCH7) from 
January 29-February 2, 2024, in India. The CCSCH7 agenda is currently 
unavailable.
    The committee is expected to continue work on:


 Proposed draft standard for turmeric
 Proposed draft standard for spices in dried fruits and 
berries--vanilla
 Update to the SCH Grouping Template


    Responsible Agencies: USDA/AMS; HHS/FDA/CFSAN.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Adjourned Codex Commodity Committees

    Several Codex Alimentarius Commodity Committees have adjourned sine 
die. The following Committees fall into this category:

Cereals, Pulses and Legumes--adjourned sine die 2020

    Responsible Agency: HHS/FDA/CFSAN.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Cocoa Products and Chocolate--adjourned sine die 2001

    Responsible Agency: HHS/FDA/CFSAN.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Meat Hygiene--adjourned sine die 2003

    Responsible Agency: USDA/FSIS.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Milk and Milk Products--adjourned sine die 2017

    Responsible Agency: USDA/AMS; HHS/FDA/CFSAN.

[[Page 54298]]

    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Natural Mineral Waters--adjourned sine die 2008

    Responsible Agency: HHS/FDA/CFSAN.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Processed Fruits and Vegetables--adjourned sine die 2020

    Responsible Agency: USDA/AMS; HHS/FDA/CFSAN.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Sugars--adjourned sine die 2019

    Responsible Agency: HHS/FDA/CFSAN.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Vegetable Proteins--adjourned sine die 1989

    Responsible Agency: USDA/ARS.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

FAO/WHO Regional Coordinating Committees

    The FAO/WHO Regional Coordinating Committees define the problems 
and needs of the regions concerning food standards and food control; 
promote within the Committee contacts for the mutual exchange of 
information on proposed regulatory initiatives and problems arising 
from food control and stimulate the strengthening of food control 
infrastructures; recommend to the Commission the development of 
worldwide standards for products of interest to the region, including 
products considered by the Committees to have an international market 
potential in the future; develop regional standards for food products 
moving exclusively or almost exclusively in intra-regional trade; draw 
the attention of the Commission to any aspects of the Commission's work 
of particular significance to the region; promote coordination of all 
regional food standards work undertaken by international governmental 
and non-governmental organizations within each region; exercise a 
general coordinating role for the region and such other functions as 
may be entrusted to them by the Commission; and promote the use of 
Codex standards and related texts by members.
    There are six regional coordinating committees:

 Coordinating Committee for Africa
 Coordinating Committee for Asia
 Coordinating Committee for Europe
 Coordinating Committee for Latin America and the Caribbean
 Coordinating Committee for the Near East
 Coordinating Committee for North America and the South West 
Pacific

Coordinating Committee for Africa

    The Coordinating Committee for Africa (CCAFRICA) convened its 24th 
Session (CCAFRICA24) virtually from September 5-9, 2022, with report 
adoption taking place on September 13, 2022.
    The CCAFRICA had the following items which were considered and 
adopted by the CAC45 in November 2022:
Final Adoption at Step 8
 Regional standard for dried meat (not yet published)
Final Adoption at Step 5/8
 Guidelines for Developing Harmonized Food Safety Legislation 
for the CCAFRICA Region (CXG 98-2022)

    The CCAFRICA plans to convene its 25th Session (CCAFRICA25) in 
approximately two years' time. The CCAFRICA25 date, location, and 
agenda are currently unavailable.
    Responsible Party: USDA/TFAA/USCO.
    U.S. Participation: Yes (as an observer).

Coordinating Committee for Asia

    The Coordinating Committee for Asia (CCASIA) convened its 22nd 
Session (CCASIA22) virtually from October 12-18, 2022, with report 
adoption taking place on October 21, 2022.
    The CCASIA advanced the following items for consideration at the 
CAC46 in November 2023:
For Final Adoption at Step 8 or Step 5/8
 Proposed draft regional standard for soybean products 
fermented with Bacillus species
 Proposed draft regional standard for cooked rice wrapped in 
plant leaves
 Proposed draft regional standard for quick frozen dumpling
 Amendment to the labelling provisions for non-retail 
containers in relevant CCASIA regional standards

    The CCASIA plans to convene its 23rd Session (CCASIA23) in 2024. 
The CCASIA23 date, location, and agenda are currently unavailable.
    Responsible Party: USDA/TFAA/USCO.
    U.S. Participation: Yes (as an observer).

Coordinating Committee for Europe

    The Coordinating Committee for Europe (CCEURO) did not meet during 
the time period covered by this notice and has not announced the date 
or location of its next session (CCEURO33). The CCEURO33 agenda is 
currently unavailable.
    Responsible Party: USDA/TFAA/USCO.
    U.S. Participation: Yes (as an observer).

Coordinating Committee for Latin America and the Caribbean

    The Coordinating Committee for Latin America and the Caribbean 
(CCLAC) convened its 22nd Session (CCLAC22) virtually from October 24-
28, 2022.
    The CCLAC plans to convene its 23rd Session (CCLAC23) in 
approximately two years' time from CCLAC22. The CCLAC23 date, location, 
and agenda are currently unavailable.
    Responsible Party: USDA/TFAA/USCO.
    U.S. Participation: Yes (as an observer).

Coordinating Committee for North America and the South West Pacific

    The Coordinating Committee for North America and the South West 
Pacific (CCNASWP) convened its 16th Session (CCNASWP16) in Nadi, Fiji, 
from January 30 to February 3, 2023.
    The CCNASWP advanced the following item for consideration by the 
CAC46 in November 2023:
For Final Adoption at Step 8
 Draft regional standard for fermented noni fruit juice

    The CCNASWP will convene its 17th Session in approximately two 
years' time from CCNASWP16. The CCNASWP17 date, location, and agenda 
are currently unavailable.
    Responsible Party: USDA/TFAA/USCO.
    U.S. Participation: Yes (as an observer).

Coordinating Committee for the Near East

    The Coordinating Committee for the Near East (CCNE) did not meet in 
2022. The CCNE plans to convene its 11th Session (CCNE11) at FAO 
headquarters in Rome, Italy, September 18-22, 2023. The agenda for CCNE 
11 includes discussion of the following topics: alignment of regional 
standards, proposed draft regional standard for maamoul, Codex work 
relevant to the region, food safety and quality in the region including 
current and emerging issues--country updates, implementation of the 
Codex Strategic Plan 2020-2025, Discussion Paper on the development of 
a standard for halal products, and Nomination of the regional 
coordinator.
    Responsible Party: USDA/TFAA/USCO.

[[Page 54299]]

    U.S. Participation: Yes (as an observer).

Contact Information

    U.S. Codex Office, United States Department of Agriculture, Room 
4861, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-3700, Email: 
[email protected].

[FR Doc. 2023-17128 Filed 8-9-23; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE P