98-13981. International Standard-Setting Activities

[Federal Register Volume 63, Number 101 (Wednesday, May 27, 1998)]
[Notices]
[Pages 28966-28983]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 98-13981]


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DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

Food Safety and Inspection Service
[Docket No. 98-010N]


International Standard-Setting Activities

AGENCY: Food Safety and Inspection Service, USDA.

ACTION: Notice.

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SUMMARY: This notice informs the public of the sanitary and 
phytosanitary standard-setting activities of the Codex Alimentarius 
Commission (Codex), in accordance with section 491 of the Trade 
Agreements Act of 1979, as amended, and the Uruguay Round Agreements 
Act, Pub. L. 103-465, 108 Stat. 4809, and seeks comments on standards 
currently under consideration and recommendations for new standards. It 
also lists other standard-setting activities of Codex, including 
commodity standards, guidelines, codes of practice, and revised texts. 
This notice covers the time periods from June 1, 1997, to May 31, 1998, 
and May 31, 1998, to June 1, 1999.

ADDRESSES: Submit written comments to: FSIS Docket Clerk, U.S. 
Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service, Room 
102, Cotton

[[Page 28967]]

Annex, Washington, DC 20250-3700. Please state that your comments refer 
to Codex and, if your comments relate to specific Codex committees, 
please identify those committees in your comments and submit a copy of 
your comments to the delegate from that particular committee. All 
comments submitted will be available for public inspection in the 
Docket Clerk's Office between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through 
Friday.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: F. Edward Scarbrough, Ph.D., United 
States Manager for Codex Alimentarius, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 
Office of the Undersecretary for Food Safety, Room 4861, South 
Agriculture Building, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 
20250-3700; [phone]. For information pertaining to particular 
committees, the delegate of that committee may be contacted. (A 
complete list of U.S. delegates and alternate delegates can be found in 
Appendix 1 to this notice.)

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 Agreements on Tariffs and Trade (GATT). U.S. membership 
in the WTO was approved and the Uruguay Round Agreements Act was signed 
into law by the President on December 8, 1994. The Uruguay Round 
Agreements became effective, with respect to the United States, on 
January 1, 1995. 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, Codex, International Office of 
Epizootics, and the International Plant Protection Convention. 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 sanitary and phytosanitary 
standard-setting activities of each international standard-setting 
organization. The Secretary of Agriculture has delegated to the 
Administrator, Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), the 
responsibility to inform the public of the SPS standard-setting 
activities of Codex. The FSIS Administrator has, in turn, assigned the 
responsibility for informing the public of the SPS standard-setting 
activities of Codex to the Office of U.S. Codex Alimentarius, FSIS.
    Codex was created in 1962 by two U.N. organizations, the Food and 
Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO). 
Codex is the principal international organization for encouraging fair 
international trade in food and protecting the health and economic 
interests of consumers. 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 ensure that the world's food supply is sound, wholesome, free from 
adulteration, and correctly labeled. In the United States, the United 
States Department of Agriculture (USDA); the Food and Drug 
Administration (FDA), Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), 
and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) manage and carry out U.S. 
Codex activities.
    As the agency responsible for informing the public of the sanitary 
and phytosanitary standard-setting activities of Codex, FSIS will 
publish this notice in the Federal Register annually, setting forth the 
following information:
    1. The sanitary or phytosanitary standards under consideration or 
planned for consideration; and
    2. For each sanitary or phytosanitary 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 THOSE STANDARDS LISTED IN THIS NOTICE THAT ARE 
UNDER CONSIDERATION BY CODEX, PLEASE CONTACT THE CODEX DELEGATE OR THE 
OFFICE OF U.S. CODEX ALIMENTARIUS. This notice also solicits public 
comment on those standards that are under consideration and on 
recommendations for new standards. The 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 United States' delegate will facilitate public participation in 
the United States Government's activities relating to Codex 
Alimentarius. The United States' 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 United States' delegation activities to 
interested parties. This information will include the current status of 
each agenda item, the United States Government's position or 
preliminary position on the agenda items, and the time and place of 
planning meetings and debriefing meetings following Codex committee 
sessions. Please notify the appropriate U.S. delegate or the Office of 
U.S. Codex Alimentarius, Room 4861, South Agriculture Building, 1400 
Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20250-3700, if you would like 
to receive information about specific committees.
    The information provided below describes the status of Codex 
standard-setting activities by the Codex Committees for the two year 
period from June 1, 1997 to June 1, 1999. In addition, the following 
information is included with this Federal Register notice:

Appendix 1. List of U.S. Codex Officials (includes U.S. delegates and 
alternate delegates).
Appendix 2. Timetable of Codex Sessions (June 1997 through June 1999)
Appendix 3. Definitions for the Purpose of Codex Alimentarius
Appendix 4.
    (A) Uniform Procedure for the Elaboration of Codex Standards and 
Related Texts
    (B) Uniform Accelerated Procedure for the Elaboration of Codex 
Standards and Related Texts
Appendix 5. Nature of Codex Standards
Appendix 6. Lists of Standards and Related Texts Adopted by the 22nd 
Session of the Codex Alimentarius Commission, June 1997
F. Edward Scarbrough,
United States Manager for Codex Alimentarius.

Codex Alimentarius Commission and Executive Committee

    The Codex Alimentarius Commission will hold its Twenty-third 
Session June 28-July 3, 1999 in Rome, Italy. At that time it will 
consider the standards, codes of practice, and related matters brought 
to its attention by the general subject committees, commodity 
committees, and member delegations.
    Prior to the Commission meeting, the Executive Committee will meet 
in June

[[Page 28968]]

1998 and June 1999. It is composed of the chairperson, vice-
chairpersons and six members elected from the Commission, one from each 
of the following geographic regions: Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin 
America and the Caribbean, North America, and South-West Pacific. At 
its session in June 1998, it will consider the following items:
     Budgetary and financial matters;
     Review of Codex Subsidiary Bodies;
     Consideration of the Draft Medium-Term Plan for 1998 to 
2000;
     Implementation of the Commission's Programme of Work:
     Implementation of decisions taken by the 22nd Session of 
the Commission
     Consideration of new work proposals
     Consideration of Proposed Draft Standards and Related 
Texts at Step 5
     Matters arising from Codex Committees
     Report on Matters Relating to the Implementation of the 
WTO Agreement on the Application of Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) 
Measures and the Agreement on Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT)
    Responsible Agency: USDA/FSIS.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Residues of Veterinary Drugs in Foods

    The Codex Committee on Residues of Veterinary Drugs determines 
priorities for the consideration of residues of veterinary drugs in 
foods and recommends Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) for veterinary 
drugs. A Codex Maximum Limit for Residues of Veterinary Drugs (MRLVD) 
is the maximum concentration of residue resulting from the use of a 
veterinary drug (expressed in mg/kg or ug/kg on a fresh weight basis) 
that is recommended by the Codex Alimentarius Commission to be legally 
permitted or recognized as acceptable in or on a food.
    An MRLVD is based on the type and amount of residue considered to 
be without any toxicological hazard for human health as expressed by 
the Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)*, or on the basis of a temporary ADI 
that utilizes an additional safety factor. An MRLVD also takes into 
account other relevant public health risks as well as food 
technological aspects.
    When establishing an MRLVD, consideration is also given to residues 
that occur in food of plant origin and/or the environment. Furthermore, 
the MRLVD may be reduced to be consistent with good practices in the 
use of veterinary drugs and to the extent that practical analytical 
methods are available.
    * Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI): An estimate by the Joint FAO/WHO 
Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) of the amount of a 
veterinary drug, expressed on a body weight basis, that can be ingested 
daily over a lifetime without appreciable health risk (standard man = 
60 kg).
    The next meeting of the Codex Committee on Residues of Veterinary 
Drugs in Foods will take place September 14-17, 1998, in Washington, 
DC. The following matters will be considered:
    To be considered at Step 7:

Abamectin
Azaperone
Cetiofur
Chlorotetracycline/Oxtetracycline/
Tetracycline
Cypermethrin
=Cypermethrin
Dexamethasone
Diclazuril
Dihydrostreptomycin/Streptomycin
Febantel/Febendazole/Oxyfendazole
Gentamicin
Neomycin
Spectinomycin
Thiamphenicol
Tilmicosin

    To be considered at Step 4:
     Clenbuterol.
    New work:
     Porcine Somatotropin (PST).
     Draft Code of Practice on Good Animal Feeding.
    In addition, the following matters will be discussed:
     Guidelines on Residues at Injection Sites;
     Methods of Analysis and Sampling; Review of Performance-
based Criteria and Identification of Routine Methods;
     Risk Analysis in Codex and the Committee on Residues of 
Veterinary Drugs in Foods;
     Amendments to the Guidelines for the Establishment of a 
Regulatory Programme for Control of Veterinary Drug Residues in Foods--
Residues of Veterinary Drugs in Milk and Milk Products;
     Harmonization of Technical Requirements for Registration 
of Veterinary Medicinal Products; and
     Maximum Residue Limits for Certain Veterinary Drugs in 
Foods (Priority List); and
     Data Requirements for the Establishment of Maximum Residue 
Limits for Veterinary Drugs for Minor Species.
    Responsible Agency: HHS/FDA USDA/FSIS.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Food Additives and Contaminants

    The Codex Committee on Food Additives and Contaminants (CCFAC) 
establishes or endorses permitted maximum or guideline levels for 
individual food additives, contaminants, and naturally occurring 
toxicants in food and animal feed. The 30th Session of the CCFAC met 
March 9-13, 1998, in the Hague, The Netherlands. The 31st Session of 
the CCFAC is tentatively scheduled for March 22-26, 1999, in the Hague, 
The Netherlands. The following matters contained in ALINORMS 99/12 and 
97/12A are under consideration by the CCFAC:

Food Additives

     Proposed Draft General Standard for Food Additives: Annex 
A (Guidelines for the Estimation of Appropriate Levels of Use of Food 
Additives) to be revised for consideration at Step 3; additives with 
specified conditions for use in specific food categories or foodstuffs 
(forwarded to Executive Committee at Step 5); (see Table 1, below).
     Specifications for the following food additives are 
recommended by the CCFAC for adoption by the Twenty-third Session of 
the Codex Commission: agar, alginic acid, ammonium alginate, calcium 
alginate, carbon dioxide, diacetyltartaric and fatty acid esters of 
glycerol, ethyl hydroxyethyl cellulose, gellan gum, hydrogenated poly-
1-decene, isoamyl acetate, malitol syrup, microcrystalline wax, mixed 
carotenoids, modified starches, potassium alginate, potassium 
propionate, propylene glycol, propylene glycol alginate, propylene 
glycol esters of fatty acids, salatrim, sodium alginate, 
sucroglycerides, sulfur dioxide, and tertiary-butylhydroquinone.
     Specifications for the following flavouring agents are 
recommended by the CCFAC for adoption by the Twenty-third Session of 
the Codex Commission (numbers in parentheses are the Joint FAO/WHO 
Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) flavour identification 
numbers): allyl cyclohexane propionate (13), ethyl octanoate (33), 
ethyl nonanoate (34), isoamyl acetate (43), isoamyl butyrate (45), 
isoamyl isobutyrate (49), isoamyl isovalerate (50), citronellyl formate 
(53), geranyl formate (54), neryl formate (55), rhodinyl formate (56), 
citronellyl acetate (57), neryl acetate (59), rhodinyl acetate (60), 
citronellyl propionate (61), geranyl propionate (62), cis-3,7-dimethyl-
2,6-octadien-1-yl propionate (63), citronellyl butyrate (65), geranyl 
butyrate (66), neryl butyrate (67), rhodinyl butyrate (68), citronellyl 
isobutyrate (71), neryl isobutyrate (73), neryl isovalerate (76), 
formic acid (79), acetaldehyde (80), acetic acid (81), propyl alcohol 
(82), propionaldehyde

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(83), propionic acid (84), butyl alcohol (85), butyraldehyde (86), 
butyric acid (87), amyl alcohol (88), valeraldehyde (89), valeric acid 
(90), hexyl alcohol (91), hexanal (92), hexanoic acid (93), heptyl 
alcohol (94), heptanal (95), heptanoic acid (96), 1-octanol (97), 
octanal (98), octanoic acid (99), nonyl alcohol (100), nonanal (101), 
nonanoic acid (102), 1-decanol (103), decanal (104), decanoic acid 
(105), undecyl alcohol (106), undecanal (107), undecanoic acid (108), 
lauryl alcohol (109), lauric aldehyde (110), lauric acid (111), 
myristaldehyde (112), myristic acid (113), 1-hexadecanol (114), 
palmitic acid (115), stearic acid (116), propyl formate (117), butyl 
formate (118), n-amyl formate (119), hexyl formate (120), octyl formate 
(122), cis-3-hexenyl formate (123), methyl acetate (125), propyl 
acetate (126), butyl acetate (127), hexyl acetate (128), heptyl acetate 
(129), octyl acetate (130), nonyl acetate (131), decyl acetate (132), 
lauryl acetate (133), cis-3-hexynl acetate (134), trans-3-heptynl 
acetate (135), 10-undecen-1-yl acetate (136), isobutyl acetate (137), 
2-methylbutyl acetate (138), methyl propionate (141), propyl propionate 
(142), butyl propionate (143), hexyl propionate (144), octyl propionate 
(145), decyl propionate (146), cis-3 & trans-2-hexenyl propionate 
(147), isobutyl propionate (148), methyl butyrate (149), propyl 
butyrate (150), butyl butyrate (151), n-amyl butyrate (152), hexyl 
butyrate (153), cis-3-hexenyl butyrate (157), isobutyl butyrate (158), 
methyl valerate (159), butyl valerate (160) propyl hexanoate (161), 
butyl hexanoate (162), n-amyl hexanoate (163), hexyl hexanoate (164), 
isobutyl hexanoate (166), methyl heptanoate (167), n-amyl heptanoate 
(170), methyl octanoate (173), n-amyl octanoate (174), hexyl octanoate 
(175), methyl nonanoate (179), methyl laurate (180), butyl laurate 
(180), butyl laurate (181), methyl myristate (183), methyl isobutyrate 
(185), ethyl isobutyrate (186), propyl isobutyrate (187), butyl 
isobutyrate (188), hexyl isobutyrate (189), heptyl isobutyrate (190), 
trans-3-heptenyl 2-methyl propanoate (191), octyl isobutyrate (192), 
dodecyl isobutyrate (193), isobutyl isobutyrate (194), methyl 
isovalerate (195), ethyl isovalerate (196), propyl isovalerate (197), 
butyl isovalerate (198), hexyl 3-methylbutanoate (199), octyl 
isovalerate (200), nonyl isovalerate (201), 3-hexynl 3-methylbutanoate 
(202), 2-methylpropyl 3-methylbutyrate (203), methyl 2-methylbutyrate 
(205), ethyl 2-methylbutyrate (206), n-butyl 2-methylbutyrate (207), 
hexyl 2-methylbutanoate (208), octyl 2-methylbutyrate (209), 2-
methylbutyl 2-methylbutyrate (212), ethyl 2-methyl pentanoate (214), 
methyl 4-methylvalerate (216), trans-anethole (217), and citric acid 
(218).
     Specifications for the following food additive is 
recommended by the CCFAC for adoption by the Twenty-third Session of 
the Codex Commission after changes considered editorial have been made: 
sodium propionate.
     Specifications for the following flavouring agents are 
recommended by the CCFAC for adoption by the Twenty-third Session of 
the Codex Commission after changes considered editorial have been made: 
geranyl acetate (58) and isobutyl formate (124).

Contaminants

     Methodology and Principles for Exposure Assessment in the 
Codex General Standard for Contaminants and Toxins in Food (paper to be 
revised for consideration at 31st CCFAC);
     Draft Maximum Levels and Sampling Plan for Aflatoxins in 
Raw Peanuts for Further Processing (forwarded to Codex Commission at 
Step 8);
     Draft Maximum Level for Aflatoxin M1 in milk (forwarded to 
Codex Commission at Step 8);
     Position Paper on Ochratoxin A (paper to be revised for 
consideration at 31st CCFAC);
     Position Paper on Patulin (paper to be revised for 
consideration at 31st CCFAC, and maximum level in apple juice and the 
apple juice ingredient in ready made soft drinks to be circulated for 
comment at Step 3);
     Position Paper on zearalenone to be circulated for comment 
and consideration at the 31st CCFAC;
     Draft Code of Practice for source directed measures to 
reduce contamination of foodstuffs (paper to be revised for 
consideration at 31st CCFAC);
     Draft Maximum Levels for Lead (revised levels to be 
circulated for comment and consideration at 31st CCFAC);
     Discussion Paper on Cadmium (paper to be revised and 
circulated for comment and consideration at 31st CCFAC);
     Position Paper on Arsenic (paper to be revised and 
circulated for comment and consideration at 31st CCFAC);
     Position Paper on Tin (draft maximum levels to be 
circulated for comment at Step 3 for further consideration at the 31st 
CCFAC).
    The 30th CCFAC agreed to establish an ad hoc working group for 
contaminants to be chaired by Denmark. This ad hoc working group will 
meet prior to the plenary session of the 31st CCFAC.
    Responsible Agency: HHS/FDA.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Food Additives

    For the purposes of Codex, a food additive means any substance not 
normally consumed as a food by itself and not normally used as a 
typical ingredient in the food, whether or not it has nutritive value, 
the intentional addition of which to food for a technological 
(including organoleptic) purpose in the manufacture, processing, 
preparation, treatment, packing, packaging, transport, or holding of 
such food results, or may be reasonably expected to result (directly or 
indirectly), in it or its by-products becoming a component of or 
otherwise affecting the characteristics of such foods. The food 
additive term does not include ``contaminants'' or substances added to 
food for maintaining or improving nutritional qualities.
    The General Standard for Food Additives (GSFA) will set forth 
maximum levels of use of food additives in various foods and food 
categories. The maximum levels will be based on the food additive 
provisions of previously established Codex commodity standards, as well 
as on the use of the additives in non-standardized foods.
    Only those food additives for which an acceptable daily intake 
(ADI) has been established by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on 
Food Additives (JECFA) are included in the general Standard for Food 
Additives (GSFA) at this time. All of the additives that are currently 
under consideration for inclusion in the draft GFSA are listed in Table 
1 below. Provisions for the use of these additives are at Step 5 (See 
ALINORM 99/12).

Table 1

Acesulfame Potassium
Adipic Acid
Agar
Alitame
Allura Red AC
Alpha-Amylase & Glucoamylase (Aspergillus oryzae var.)
Alpha-Amylase (Aspergillus oryzae var.)
Alpha-Tocopherol
Aluminum Ammonium Sulphate
Amaranth
Ammonium Adipate
Ammonium Polyphosphates
Annatto Extracts (includes Bixin and Norbixin)
Anoxomer
Ascorbyl Palmitate
Ascorbyl Stearate
Aspartame

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Azodicarbonamide
Azorubine
Beeswax, White and Yellow
Benzoic Acid
Benzoyl Peroxide
Beta-Apo-8'-Carotenic Acid, Methyl or
  Ethyl Ester
Beta-Apo-8'-Carotenal
Beta-Carotene (Synthetic)
Bone Phosphate
Brilliant Black PN
Brilliant Blue FCF
Brown HT
Butan-1,3-Diol
Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA)
Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT)
Calcium Benzoate
Calcium Dihydrogen Diphosphate
Calcium Disodium Ethylene Diamine Tetra Acetate
Calcium Ferrocyanide
Calcium Formate
Calcium Hydrogen Sulphite
Calcium Polyphosphates
Calcium Sorbate
Calcium Stearoyl Lactylate
Calcium Sulphite
Calcium Tartrate
Candellia Wax
Canthaxanthin
Caramel Colour, Class III--Ammonia Process
Caramel Colour, Class IV--Ammonia Sulphite Process
Carmines (including aluminum & calcium lakes of carminic acid)
Carnauba Wax
Carotenes, Natural Extracts (Vegetable)
Castor Oil
Chlorine
Chlorine Dioxide
Chlorophyllin Copper Complex, Sodium and Potassium Salts
Chlorophylls, Copper Complex
Choleic Acid
Curcumin
Cyclamic Acid (and Sodium, Potassium and Calcium Salts)
Cyclodextrin, Beta
Diacetyltartaric and Fatty Acid Esters of Glycerol
Diammonium Orthophosphate
Dicalcium Diphosphate
Dicalcium Orthophosphate
Dilauryl Thiodipropionate
Dimagnesium Diphosphate
Dimagnesium Orthophosphate
Dimethyl Dicarbonate
Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
Diphenyl
Dipotassium Diphosphate
Dipotassium Orthophosphate
Dipotassium Tartrate
Disodium Diphosphate
Disodium Ethylene Diamine Tetra Acetate
Disodium Orthophosphate
Disodium Tartrate
Erythrosine
Ethyl Maltol
Ferric Ammonium Citrate
Ferrous Gluconate
Ferrous Lactate
Formic Acid
Glycerol Ester of Wood Rosin
Grape Skin Extract
Guiaiac Resin
Hexamethylene Tetramine
Hexane
Indigotine
Iron Carbonate
Iron Oxide, Black
Iron Oxide, Red
Iron Oxide, Yellow
Isoascorbic Acid (Erythorbic Acid)
Isomalitol
Isopropyl Citrates
Lysozyme Hydrochloride
Maltol
Methyl Ethyl Ether of Cellulose
Methyl p-Hydroxybenzoate
Microcrystalline Wax
Mineral Oil
Mineral Oil (High Viscosity)
Mineral Oil (Medium & Low Viscosity, Class I)
Mineral Oil (Medium & Low Viscosity, Classes II & III)
Mixed Tocopherals Concentrate
Monoammonium Orthophosphate
Monocalcium Orthophosphate
Monomagnesium Orthophosphate
Monopotassium Orthophosphate
Monopotassium Tartrate
Monosodium Orthophosphate
Monosodium Tartrate
Nisin
Nitrous Oxide
Ortho-Phenylphenols
Orthophosphoric Acid
Oxystearin
Pentapotassium Triphosphate
Pentapotassium Triphosphate
Pentasodium Triphosphate
Pimaricin (Natamycin)
Polydimethylsiloxane
Polyethylene Glycol
Polyglycerol Esters of Fatty Acids
Polyglycerol Esters of Interesterified Ricinoleic Acid
Polyoxyethylene (20) Sorbitan Monolaurate
Polyoxyethylene (20) Sorbitan Monooleate
Polyoxyethylene (20) Sorbitan Monopalmitate
Polyoxyethylene (20) Sorbitan Monostearate
Polyoxyethylene (20) Sorbitan Tristearate
Polyoxyethylene (40) Stearate
Polyoxyethylene (8) Stearate
Polyvinylpyrrolidone
Ponceau 4R
Potassium Adipate
Potassium Benzoate
Potassium Ferrocyanide
Potassium Metabisulphite
Potassium Nitrate
Potassium Nitrite
Potassium Polyphosphate
Potassium Silicate
Potassium Sodium Tartrate
Potassium Sorbate
Potassium Sulphite
Processed Eucheuma Seaweed
Propyl p-Hydroxybenzoate
Propylene Glycol Alginate
Propylene Glycol Esters of Fatty Acids
Protease (Aspergillus oryzae var.)
Quillaia Extract
Quinoline Yellow
Red 2G
Riboflavin
Riboflavin 5'-Phosphate
Saccharin
Saffron
Salts of Fatty Acids (with Base Ammonium, Calcium and Potassium Sodium)
Salts of Myristic, Palmitic and Stearic Acid (Calcium, Potassium and 
Sodium)
Shellac
Sodium Adipate
Sodium Aluminum Phosphate-Acidic
Sodium Aluminum Phosphate-Basic
Sodium Benzoate
Sodium Calcium Polyphosphate
Sodium Diacetate
Sodium Ethyl p-Hydroxybenzoate
Sodium Ferrocyanide
Sodium Formate
Sodium Hydrogen Sulphite
Sodium Isoascorbic Acid
Sodium Metabisulphite
Sodium Methyl p-Hydroxybenzoate
Sodium Sorbate
Sodium Stearoyl Lactylate
Sodium Sulphite
Sodium Thiosulphate
Sorbic Acid
Sorbitan Monolaurate
Sorbitan Monooleate
Sorbitan Monopalmitate
Sorbitan Monostearate
Sorbitan Trioleate
Sorbitan Tristearate
Stannous Chloride
Stearoyl-2-Lactylates
Stearyl Citrate
Stearyl Tartrate
Sucralose
Sucroglycerides
Sucrose Acetate Isobutyrate
Sucrose Esters of Fatty Acids
Sulphur Dioxide
Sunset Yellow FCF
Synthetic Delta-Tocopherol
Synthetic Gamma-Tocopherol
Tannic Acid (Tannins, Food Grade)
Tartaric Acid (L(+)-)
Tartrazine
Tertiary Butylhydroquinone (TBHQ)
Tetrapotassium Diphosphate
Tetrasodium Diphosphate
Thermally Oxidized Soya Bean Oil with Mono- and Di-Glycerides of Fatty

[[Page 28971]]

Acids (TOSOM)
Thiodipropionic Acid
Tricalcium Orthophosphate
Triethyl Citrate Triglycerine Lipase
Trimagnesium Orthophosphate
Tripotassium Orthophosphate
Trisodium Diphosphate
Trisodium Orthophosphate

Codex Committee on Pesticide Residues

    The Codex Committee on Pesticide Residues recommends to the Codex 
Alimentarius Commission establishment of maximum limits for pesticide 
residues for specific food items or in groups of food. A Codex Maximum 
Limit for Pesticide Residues (MRLP) is the maximum concentration of a 
pesticide residue (expressed as mg/kg), recommended by the Codex 
Alimentarius Commission to be legally permitted in or on food 
commodities and animal feeds. Foods derived from commodities that 
comply with the respective MRLPs are intended to be toxicologically 
acceptable, that is, consideration of the various dietary residue 
intake estimates and determinations both at the national and 
international level in comparison with the ADI*, should indicate that 
foods complying with Codex MRLPs are safe for human consumption.
    Codex MRLPs are primarily intended to apply in international trade 
and are derived from reviews conducted by the Joint Meeting on 
Pesticide Residues (JMPR) following:
    (a) review of residue data from supervised trials and supervised 
uses including those reflecting national good agricultural practices 
(GAP). Data from supervised trials conducted at the highest nationally 
recommended, authorized, or registered uses are included in the review. 
In order to accommodate variations in national pest control 
requirements, Codex MRLPs take into account the higher levels shown to 
arise in such supervised trials, which are considered to represent 
effective pest control practices, and
    (b) toxicological assessment of the pesticide and its residue.
    MRLs recommended for advancement to step 5 by the 30th CCPR will be 
considered by the Executive Committee at its Forty-Fifth Session in 
June 1998 and those to Steps 5/8 and 8 by the 23rd Session of the Codex 
Alimentarius Commission in July 1999 (see table below). The Commission 
also will consider the Draft Revised Recommended Methods of Sampling 
for Determination of Pesticide Residues for Compliance with MRLs at 
Step 8.
    * Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) of a chemical is the daily intake 
which, during an entire lifetime, appears to be without appreciable 
risk to the health of the consumer on the basis of all the known facts 
at the time of the evaluation of the chemical by the Joint FAO/WHO 
Meeting on Pesticide Residues. It is expressed in milligrams of the 
chemical per kilogram of body weight.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                       Status of                                  Responsible   
       Codex committee              Standard         consideration    US participation/agenda        agency     
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pesticide Residues             Acephate.........  MRLs under          YES....................  EPA/ARS          
 (considered at the 30th                           consideration at                                             
 CCPR) (Annex II to ALINORMS                       Step 5/8.                                                    
 99/24).                                                                                                        
                               Aldicarb.........  MRLs at Step 5....  YES....................  EPA/ARS          
                               Bifenthrin.......  MRLs under          YES....................  EPA/ARS          
                                                   consideration at                                             
                                                   Step 8.                                                      
                               Chlormequat......  MRLs under          YES....................  EPA/ARS          
                                                   consideration at                                             
                                                   Step 5.                                                      
                               Chlorothalonil...  CXL deletions.....  YES....................  EPA/ARS          
                               Chlorpyrifos.....  MRLs under          YES....................  EPA/ARS          
                                                   consideration at                                             
                                                   Step 8 and CXL                                               
                                                   deletion.                                                    
                               DDT..............  EMRL under          YES....................  EPA/ARS          
                                                   consideration at                                             
                                                   Step 5.                                                      
                               Diazinon.........  MRLs under          YES....................  EPA/ARS          
                                                   consideration at                                             
                                                   Steps 5 and 5/8.                                             
                               Diquat...........  MRLs under          YES....................  EPA/ARS          
                                                   consideration at                                             
                                                   Step 8 and CXL                                               
                                                   deletions.                                                   
                               Dithiocabamates..  MRLs under          YES....................  EPA/ARS          
                                                   consideration at                                             
                                                   Step 5.                                                      
                               Fenarimol........  MRLs under          YES....................  EPA/ARS          
                                                   consideration at                                             
                                                   Steps 5/2 and 8.                                             
                               Flumethrin.......  MRLs under          YES....................  EPA/ARS          
                                                   consideration at                                             
                                                   Step 5/8.                                                    
                               Haloxyfop........  MRLs under          YES....................  EPA/ARS          
                                                   consideration at                                             
                                                   Step 5.                                                      
                               Methamidophos....  MRLs under          YES....................  EPA/ARS          
                                                   consideration at                                             
                                                   Steps 5 and 5/8.                                             
                               Methidathion.....  MRLs under          YES....................  EPA/ARS          
                                                   consideration at                                             
                                                   Step 8 and CXL                                               
                                                   deletion.                                                    
                               Parathion-methyl.  MRLs under          YES....................  EPA/ARS          
                                                   consideration at                                             
                                                   Step 8 and CXL                                               
                                                   deletion.                                                    
                               Phenothrin.......  CXL deletion......  YES....................  EPA/ARS          
                               Phorate..........  MRLs under          YES....................  EPA/ARS          
                                                   consideration at                                             
                                                   Step 8.                                                      
                               Proxpoxur........  MRLs under          YES....................  EPA/ARS          
                                                   consideration at                                             
                                                   Step 5/8 and CXL                                             
                                                   deletions.                                                   
                               Tefufenozide.....  MRLs under          YES....................  EPA/ARS          
                                                   consideration at                                             
                                                   Steps 5 and 5/8.                                             
                               Teflubenzuron....  MRLs under          YES....................  EPA/ARS          
                                                   consideration at                                             
                                                   Step 5/8.                                                    
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Codex Committee on Methods of Analysis and sampling

    The Codex Committee on Methods of Analysis and Sampling:
    (a) Defines the criteria appropriate to Codex Methods of Analysis 
and Sampling;
    (b) Serves as a coordinating body for Codex with other 
international groups working in methods of analysis and sampling and 
quality assurance systems for laboratories;
    (c) Specifies, on the basis of final recommendations submitted to 
it by the other bodies referred to in (b) above, Reference Methods of 
Analysis and Sampling appropriate to Codex Standards which are 
generally applicable to a number of foods;
    (d) Considers, amends, if necessary, and endorses, as appropriate, 
methods of analysis and sampling proposed by Codex (Commodity) 
Committees, except that methods of analysis and sampling for residues 
of pesticides or veterinary drugs in food, the assessment of

[[Page 28972]]

microbiological quality and safety in food, and the assessment of 
specifications for food additives do not fall within the terms of 
reference of this Committee;
    (e) Elaborates sampling plans and procedures, as may be required;
    (f) Considers specific sampling and analysis problems submitted to 
it by the Commission or any of its Committees; and
    (g) Defines procedures, protocols, guidelines or related texts for 
the assessment of food laboratory proficiency, as well as quality 
assurance systems for laboratories.
    The following matters will be considered by the Committee at its 
next meeting in Budapest, Hungary on November 23-27, 1998:
     Proposed Draft Codex General Guidelines on Sampling;
     Criteria for Evaluating Acceptable Methods of Analysis for 
Codex purposes;
     Harmonization of Test Results Corrected for Recovery 
Factors;
     Report of Inter-Agency Meeting on ``limits'' Provisions in 
Codex Standards;
     Endorsement of Methods of Analysis for Codex; and
     Measurement Uncertainty.
    New work approved by the 22nd Session of the Codex Alimentarius 
Commission:
     Intra-Laboratory Method Validation.
    Responsible Agency: HHS/FDA USDA/AMS.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Food Import and Export Inspection and 
Certification Systems

    The Codex Committee on Food Import and Export Certification and 
Inspection Systems is charged with developing principles and guidelines 
for food import and export inspection and certification systems. 
Additionally, the Committee develops principles and guidelines for the 
application of measures by competent authorities to provide assurance 
that foods comply with essential requirements. This encompasses work on 
equivalence of inspection systems, guidelines on food import control 
systems and food product certification and information exchange. The 
development of guidelines for the appropriate utilization of quality 
assurance systems to ensure that foodstuffs conform to requirements and 
to facilitate trade are also included in the Committee's terms of 
reference. Current work activities of the Committee are the following:
    Draft guidelines to be considered at Step 5 by the Executive 
Committee at its Forty-fifth Session in July, 1998:
     Draft Guidelines for the Development of Equivalence 
Agreements Regarding Food Import and Export Inspection and 
Certification Systems
    Continuing matters to be discussed at the Seventh Session of the 
Committee:
     Discussion Paper on Issues Relating to the Judgement of 
Equivalence; and
     Discussion Paper on the Development of Guidelines for the 
Utilization and Promotion of Quality Assurance Systems.
    New work to be proposed to the Executive Committee:
     Development of Guidelines or a similar document on Food 
Import Control Systems;
     Development of Guidelines and Criteria for a Generic 
Official Certificate Format and Rules Relating to the Production and 
Issue of Certificates; and
     Discussion Paper on Guidelines for the Establishment of a 
Database on Importing Country Legislation.
    Responsible Agency: HHS/FDA. USDA/FSIS.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on General Principles

    The Codex Committee on General Principles deals with rules and 
procedures referred to it by the Codex Alimentarius Commission. None of 
the following recommendations for changing the rules of procedure for 
Codex are in the Step Procedure. The following items will be considered 
at the next meeting of the Codex Committee on General Principles, which 
will take place in Paris, France, on September 7-11, 1998:
     Risk Analysis;
     Definitions related to Risk Management
     Working Priniciples for Risk Analysis
     Food Safety Objectives
     Measures Intended to Facilitate Consensus;
     Review of the General Principles of Codex;
     Consideration of special treatment of developing countries
     Revision of the Acceptance Procedure
     Review of the Status and Objectives of Codex Texts;
     Review of the Statements of Principle on the Role of 
Science and the Extent to Which Other Factors are Taken into Account--
Application in the Case of BST and PST;
     Revision of the Procedural Manual;
     Procedures concerning the participation of INGOs
     Other aspects
     Review of the Code of Ethics for International Trade in 
Foods.
    Responsible Agency: USDA/FSIS.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Food Labelling

    The Codex Committee on Food Labelling is responsible for drafting 
provisions on labelling problems assigned by the Codex Alimentarius 
Commission. The following draft guidelines and standards were 
considered by the Committee at its May 1998 meeting.
    The Committee is continuing work on:
     Proposed Draft Amendment to the Labelling Section of the 
Standard for Quick Frozen Fish Sticks (Fish Fingers), Fish Portions and 
Fish Fillets, Breaded or in Batter at Step 7;
     Draft Guidelines for Labelling Foods that can cause 
Hypersensitivity at Step 7;
     Draft Guidelines for Organically Produced Foods at Step 7;
     Proposed Draft Amendment to the General Labelling Standard 
(Biotechnology) at Step 4;
     Proposed Draft Recommendations for the Use of Health 
Claims at Step 4.
    New work:
     Review of General Guidelines for Nutrition Labelling;
     Definition of the Claim ``Vegetarian;''
     ``Sports Drinks'' and ``Energy Drinks''
    Responsible Agency: HHS/FDA. USDA/FSIS.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Food Hygiene

    The Codex Committee on Food Hygiene drafts basic provisions on food 
hygiene for all foods. The term ``hygiene'' also includes, where 
applicable, microbiological specifications for food and associated 
methodology. The following Code of Hygienic Practice will be considered 
by the Codex Alimentarius Commission at its 23rd Session in June 1999:
     Draft Code of Practice for Refrigerated Packaged Foods 
with Extended Shelf-Life.
    The following Guidelines and Codes of Hygienic Practice will be 
discussed at the Committee's next meeting in Washington, DC on October 
26-30, 1998:
    To be considered at Step 7:
     Proposed Draft Principles and Guidelines for the Conduct 
of Microbiological Risk Assessment; and
     Proposed Draft Code of Hygienic Practice for Packaged 
(Bottled) Drinking Waters (Other than Natural Mineral Water).
    To be considered at Step 4 of the Accelerated Procedure:

[[Page 28973]]

     Proposed Draft Amendment to the General Principles of Food 
Hygiene (on the need for sufficient rinsing after chemical 
disinfection).
    To be considered at Step 4:
     Proposed Draft Code of Hygienic Practice for the Transport 
of Foodstuffs in Bulk and Semi-Packaged Foodstuffs;
     Proposed Draft Recommendations for the control of Listeria 
monocytogenes in Foods in International Trade;
     Proposed Draft Code of Practice on Good Animal Feeding;
     Implications for the Broader Applications of the HACCP 
System;
     Broader Implications on the Application of Microbiological 
Risk Evaluation in International Foods and Feed Trade;
     Development of Risk-Based Guidance for the Use of HACCP-
like Systems in Small Businesses, with Special References to Developing 
Countries; and
     Recommendations for the Management of Microbiological 
Hazards for Foods in International Trade.
    Other committee work:
     Code of Hygienic Practice for Milk and Milk Products;
     Discussion paper on the Hygienic Recycling of Processing 
Water in Food Plants;
     Discussion paper on the Proposed Draft Code of Hygienic 
Practice for Primary Production, Harvesting and Packaging of Fresh 
Produce;
     Discussion paper on the Proposed Draft of Hygienic 
Practice for Pre-cut Fruits and Vegetables;
     Discussion paper on the Proposed Draft Annex on ``Cleaning 
and Disinfection'' to the Recommended International Code of Practice--
General Principles of Food Hygiene;
     Comments and Information on Prioritization of the Revision 
of Codes of Hygienic Practice;
     Application of Risk Analysis Principles in Codex: 
Microbiological Hazards; and
     Revision of the Standard Wording for Food Hygiene 
Provisions, Section K of the Procedural Manual.
    Responsible Agency: DOC/NMFS, HHS/FDA, USDA/FSIS.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Fresh Fruits and Vegetables

    The Codex Committee on Fresh Fruits and Vegetables is responsible 
for elaborating world-wide standards and codes of practice for fresh 
fruits and vegetables. The following draft standards will be considered 
by the Codex Alimentarius Commission at its 23rd Session in June 1999. 
The draft standards listed below are contained in ALINORM 99/35.
    To be considered at Step 8:
     Draft Standard for Chayote;
     Draft Standard for Lime;
     Draft Standard for Pummelo; and
     Draft Standard for Guava.
    To be considered for adoption at Step 5/8 of the accelerated 
procedure:
     Draft Standard for Mexican Limes; and
     Draft Standard for Ginger.
    To be considered at Step 5 by the Codex Executive Committee at its 
June 1998 meeting:
     Draft Revised Standard for Pineapple;
     Draft Standard for Asparagus;
     Draft Standard for Grapefruit;
     Draft Standard for Longan;
    The committee is continuing work on:
     Draft Standard for Oranges, including guide for use in 
scoring freezing injury; and
     Draft Code of Practice for the Quality Inspection and 
Certification of Fresh Fruits and Vegetables.
    Proposals to be forwarded to the Executive Committee for new work 
include Tiquisque (lilac and white), Yucca, Uchuva, Yellow Pitahaya and 
Papaya.
    Responsible Agency: 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 
is responsible for studying nutritional problems referred by the Codex 
Alimentarius Commission. The Committee also drafts provisions on 
nutritional aspects for all foods and develops guidelines, general 
principles, and standards for foods for special dietary uses. The 
following draft standards and guidelines will be considered at the 
Committee's next meeting, September 21-25, 1998, in Berlin, Germany. 
The reference document for the following matters is ALINORM 97-26 and 
other documents as specifically noted.
    To be considered at Step 7:
     Proposed Draft Revised Standards for Gluten-Free Foods; 
and
     Draft Table of Conditions for Nutrient Contents (Part B).
    To be considered at Step 5:
     Proposed Draft Amendment to the Standard for Infant 
Formula (Vitamin B\12\ content)
    To be considered at Step 4:
     Proposal Draft Guidelines for Vitamin and Mineral 
Supplements;
     Proposed Draft Revised Standard for Infant Formula (CL 
1997/13-NFSDU); and
     Proposed Draft Revised Standards for Processed Cereal-
Based Foods for Infants and Young Children.
    The committee is continuing work on:
     Proposed Definitions for Vitamins and Minerals as Nutrient 
Reference Values for Labeling;
     Proposed Levels of Vitamins and Minerals in Foods for 
Special Medical Purposes (CL 1997/11-NFSDU);
     Dietary Modelling (CL 1997/12-NFSDU); and
     Nutrient Reference Values for Labelling Purposes (CL 1997/
12-NFSDU).
    Responsible Agency: HHS/FDA.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Fish and Fishery Products

    The Fish and Fishery Products Committee is responsible for 
elaborating standards for fresh and frozen fish, crustaceans and 
mollusks. The following draft guidelines and codes of practice will be 
considered at the next meeting of the Committee, scheduled for June 8-
12, 1998, in Bergen, Norway.
    To be considered at Step 7:
     Proposed Draft Standard for Dried Salted Anchovies
     Proposed Draft Standard for Crackers from Marine and 
Freshwater Fish, Crustacean and Molluscan Shellfish
    Guidelines to be considered at Step 7:
     Proposed Draft Guidelines for the Sensory Evaluation of 
Fish and Shellfish including a Proposed Draft Section on Training of 
Assessors at Step 3
    Codes to be considered at Step 3:
     Proposed Draft Code of Practice for Fish and Fishery 
Products (Fresh Fish, Frozen Fish, Minced Fish, Canned Fish, Surimi, 
Salted Fish and Smoked Fish)
    In addition, the Committee is working on the following proposed 
draft codes: (1) Products of Aquaculture; (2) Frozen Shrimps and 
Prawns; and (3) Molluscan Shellfish.
    New work to be elaborated:
     Standard for Molluscan Shellfish
     Standard for Smoked Fish
     Standard for Salted Atlantic Herring
    Responsible Agency: HHS/FDA USDC/NOAA/NMFS.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Milk and Milk Products

    The Codex Committee on Milk and Milk Products is responsible for 
establishing international codes and standards for milk and milk 
products. The following revised standards and draft revised codes of 
principles were considered at the last meeting of the committee, May 
18-22, 1998.

[[Page 28974]]

    Considered at Step 7:
     Draft Revised Standard for Butter;
     Draft Revised Standard for Milkfat Products;
     Draft Revised Standard for Evaporated Milks;
     Draft Revised Standard for Sweetened Condensed Milk;
     Draft Revised Standard for Milk and Cream Powders;
     Draft Revised Standard for Cheese;
     Draft Revised Standard for Whey Cheese;
     Draft Revised Standard for Cheeses in Brine;
     Draft Code of Principles Concerning Milk and Milk Products 
(General Standard for the Labelling of Milk and Milk Products);
     Draft Standard for Unripened Cheese, including Fresh 
Cheese.
    Considered at Step 4:
     Proposed Draft Revised Standard for Processed Cheese;
     Proposed Draft Revised Standard for Cream;
     Proposed Draft Revised Individual Standards for Cheese;
     Proposed Draft Revised Standard for Fermented Milk 
Products;
     Proposed Draft Standard for Dairy Spread; and
     Proposed Draft Standard for Mozzarella.
    Other work:
     Model Export Certificate by the CCFICS;
     Nutrition and Quality Descriptors for Milk Products; and
     Heat Treatment Definitions.
    New work:
     Proposal for new standard for ``Parmesan''
    Responsible Agency: USDA/AMS, HHS/FDA.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Fats and Oils

    The Codex Committee on Fats and Oils is responsible for elaborating 
standards for fats and oils of animal, vegetable, and marine origin. 
The reference document is ALINORM 97/17. The Fifteenth Session of the 
Committee recommended the following be adopted by the Commission in 
June 1997:
     Draft Standard for Named Animal Fats at Step 8;
     Draft Standard for Edible Fats and Oils Not Covered by 
Individual Standards at Step 8;
     Draft Revised Code of Practice for the Storage and 
Transport of Fats and Oils in Bulk at Step 8;
    The 22nd Session of the Commission noted that there was controversy 
on the proposed peroxide value and provisions for additives in the 
Draft Standards and decided to return them to Step 6 for government 
comments and further consideration by the Committee. At the Commission 
meeting several delegates objected to adopting the Draft Revised Code 
of Practice because of a number of unaddressed issues. In addition, it 
noted that Thermal Heating Fluids were not generally allowed and this 
represented a serious problem to many exporting countries. The 
Commission decided to discontinue work on the revision and revoke the 
current Standard for Specified Vegetable Fat products and Specified 
Animal and Vegetable Fat products. The Commission agreed to discontinue 
work on converting the European Regional Standard for mayonnaise into a 
world-wide standard.
    In addition to the two Draft Standards and the Draft Revised Code 
listed above, the Sixteenth Session of the Committee, tentatively 
scheduled for Spring 1999, will consider the following at Step 7:
     Draft Standard for Named Vegetable Oils; and
     Draft Standard for Olive Oils and Olive-Pomace Oils.
    The Committee will also consider the Draft Standard for Fat Spreads 
and Blended Fat Spreads at Step 4.
    Responsible Agency: HHS/FDA, USDA/ARS.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Cocoa Products and Chocolate

    The Codex Committee on Cocoa Products and Chocolate held 15 
sessions. The last meeting, at which the original program of work was 
completed, was held in 1982. The Committee elaborated world-wide 
standards for cocoa products and chocolate.
    The Commission in 1991 decided to embark on a program of work to 
update and revise all of the standards.
    The revisions were to include updating of the sections on food 
hygiene and food labeling and removal from the standards of all non-
essential details. The standards, when updated and revised, should 
contain only those provisions that are necessary to protect consumer 
health and prevent fraud.
    Provisions of an advisory nature reflecting quality factors and 
criteria typically used in trade to define or describe the quality of 
the product are to be removed from the standard. These guidance 
provisions are intended to assist users of the Codex standard when 
making international purchases and are, therefore, not subject to 
formal acceptance by users of the standard.
    The 21st Session of the Commission endorsed the recommendation of 
the forty-second session of the Executive Committee to initiate the 
revision of the Cocoa Products and Chocolate Standards.
    The Swiss Secretariat prepared updated versions of the Standards 
and requested government comments in CL 1995/28 CPC. The technical 
contents of the standards were not amended and comments were requested 
from governments on amendments.
    The amended standards for chocolate and chocolate products were 
considered at Step 4 by the Sixteenth Session of the Committee, October 
1996. The Committee returned the Proposed Draft Revised Standard for 
Chocolate and Chocolate Products to Step 3 for further consideration.
    Proposed Draft Revised Standards for Cocoa Butter, Cocoa (Cacao) 
Nib, Cocoa (Cacao) Mass, Cocoa Press Cake and Cocoa Dust (Cocoa Fines) 
for use in the manufacture of Cocoa and Chocolate products, and for 
Cocoa Powders (Cacaos) and Dry Cocoa-Sugar Mixture will be considered 
at the Seventeenth Session of the Committee scheduled for the Fall of 
1998.
    Responsible Agency: HHS/FDA.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Processed fruits and vegetables

    The United States-hosted Codex Committee on Processed Fruits and 
Vegetables (CCPFV) elaborated 37 standards for various types of 
processed fruits and vegetables, including many canned products (except 
juices), some dried products and other related products. The CCPFV held 
18 sessions from 1964 through 1986 and then adjourned sine die. The 
CCPFV reconvened for its 19th session in March 1998 in order to 
consider, at Step 4, proposed draft revisions of the 37 existing Codex 
standards for processed fruits and vegetables. These proposed draft 
revisions were prepared and distributed in a circular letter in January 
1997 in an effort to simplify the standards and thereby increase the 
likelihood of their use and acceptance by national governments.
    During the 19th session, the Committee agreed in general with the 
principle of simplifying standards and, when practical, covering like 
products under a single standard. Due to time constraints, the meeting 
focused its discussions on a limited number of standards. The Committee 
also noted the status of the other standards and agreed on steps to 
consolidate certain standards and on recommendations for future work.
    As a result of the 19th session, the status of work covered by the 
CCPFV is as follows:

[[Page 28975]]

     Draft Standard for Canned Bamboo Shoots at Step 7;
     Proposed Draft Revised Standard for Canned Applesauce at 
Step 5; and
     Proposed Draft Revised Standard for Canned Pears at Step 
5.
     Proposed Draft Standards at Step 3:
     Canned Stone Fruits (new work);
     Canned Citrus Fruits;
     Canned Berry Fruits;
     Canned Mangoes;
     Canned Pineapple;
     Canned Fruit Cocktail;
      Canned Tropical Fruit Salad;
     Canned Chestnuts and Chestnut Puree;
     Canned Vegetables (new work)*;
     Canned Tomatoes;
     Canned Mushrooms;
     Jams, Jellies and Marmalades (new work);
     Mango Chutney**;
     Pickled Cucumbers (Cucumber Pickles);
     Table Olives;
     Processed Tomato Concentrates;
     Dried Apricots;
     Dates;
     Raisins;
     Grated Desiccated Coconut;
     Unshelled Pistachio Nuts;
     Dried Edible Fungi;
     Edible Fungi and Fungus Products;
     Soy Sauce (new work);
     Proposed Draft Guidelines for Packing Media in Canned 
Fruits (new work); and
     Proposed Draft Guidelines for Packing Media in Canned 
Vegetables (new work).
    * The following products will be considered for inclusion into the 
proposed draft standards for canned vegetables: canned green beans and 
wax beans, canned sweet corn, canned asparagus, canned green peas, 
canned mature processed peas, canned carrots, canned palmito and 
possible canned tomatoes and canned mushrooms.
    ** In the future, mango chutney may be included in a general Codex 
standard for chutney.
    There will be two additional standards forthcoming from the Codex 
Coordinating Committee for Asia, namely, the Proposed Draft Standard 
for Pickles and the Proposed Draft Standard for Kimchi. The Committee 
agreed to keep the Codex European Regional Standard for Vinegar, a 
regional standard, rather than consider it for worldwide status. The 
Committee also recommended that the European regional standard be 
referred to the Codex Coordinating Committee for Europe for updating 
into the current Codex format. In addition, the CCPFV agreed to 
recommend that any future work on converting the Codex European 
Regional Standard for Fresh Fungus Chanterelle into a worldwide 
standard be transferred to the Codex Committee for Fresh Fruits and 
Vegetables. The Committee also acknowledges that cherries may be 
considered for inclusion in the proposed draft standard for canned 
stone fruits and artichokes and potatoes may be considered for 
inclusion in the proposed draft standard for canned vegetables.
    New work for the CCPFV is subject to approval by the Executive 
Committee at its next meeting.
    The next session of the CCPFV is tentatively scheduled for March 
20-24, 2000. The exact location and dates are to be decided between the 
U.S. and Codex Secretariat.
    Responsible Agency: HHS/FDA USDA/AMS.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Certain Codex Commodity Committees

    Several Codex Alimentarius Commodity Committees have adjourned sine 
die. The following Committees fall into this category:
     Cereals, Pulses and Legumes*
    Responsible Agency: HHS/FDA, USDA/GIPSA
    U.S. Participation: Yes
     Meat Hygiene*
    Responsible Agency: USDA/FSIS
    U.S. Participation: Yes
     Processed Meat and Poultry Products*
    Responsible Agency: USDA/FSIS
    U.S. Participation: Yes
     Sugars
    Responsible Agency: HHS/FDA
    U.S. Participation: Yes
     Soups and Broths*
    Responsible Agency: USDA/FSIS
    U.S. Participation: Yes
     Vegetable Proteins*
    Responsible Agency: HHS/FDA, USDA/ARS
    U.S. Participation: Yes
    *There is no planned activity for these Committees in the next 
year.
    A brief report on activities of the Codex Committees on Edible 
Ices, Soups and Broths, and Sugars follows:

Codex Committee on Edible Ices

    The Committee on Edible Ices was responsible for elaborating 
standards for all types of edible ices, including mixes and powders 
used for their manufacture. The 43rd Session of the Executive Committee 
in June 1996 recommended that the Codex Standard for Edible Ices and 
Edible Ice Mixes be revoked. It was reported that there was no need for 
the standard as there was not a significant international trade. The 
Executive Committee further recommended that the Codex Committee on 
Edible Ices be abolished. The 22nd Session of the Codex Alimentarius 
Commission decided in June 1997 to revoke the standard and abolish the 
committee.

Codex Committee on Soups and Broths

    The Codex Committee on Soups and Broths elaborated worldwide 
standards for soups, broths, bouillons and consommes. The committee 
adjourned sine die. The main tasks of the Committee were completed. 
However, at its June 1997 meeting, the Codex Alimentarius Commission 
requested that the Committee commence work revising the Standard for 
Bouillons and Consommes.
    Responsible Agency: USDA/FSIS.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Sugars

    The Codex Committee on Sugars elaborated standards for all types of 
sugars and sugar products. The Committee was adjourned sine die, but 
has been asked to revise the standards for Sugar and Honey. The Codex 
Alimentarius Commission at its 22nd Session returned the Draft Revised 
Standards for Sugar and Honey, which had been submitted for 
consideration at Step 8, to the Committee for a new round of comments.
    Responsible Agency: HHS/FDA.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Joint U.N.E.C.E. Codex Alimentarius Groups of Experts

    Two groups of experts dealt with specific commodities much as the 
Codex Commodity Committees do. The Joint Groups of Experts have 
completed their main tasks and have adjourned. They could be called to 
meet again if the Codex Alimentarius Commission so decides. These 
Groups are:
     Standardization of Quick Frozen Foods; and
     Standardization of Fruit Juices.
    There are no standards from either group being considered by the 
Twenty-third session of the Commission in June, 1999.
    Responsible Agency: HHS/FDA.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee for Natural Mineral Waters

    The Codex Committee for Natural Mineral Waters (CCNMW) is 
responsible for elaborating standards for natural mineral waters. The 
Codex Alimentarius Commission at its 22nd meeting approved the 
development of a standard for bottled/packaged water other than natural 
mineral waters. The United States prepared the initial proposed draft 
standard. The Committee will meet to discuss the draft in November 
1998.

[[Page 28976]]

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

FAO/WHO Regional Coordinating Committees

    The Codex Alimentarius Commission is made up of an Executive 
Committee, as well as approximately 25 subsidiary bodies. Included in 
these subsidiary bodies are several coordinating committees.
    There are currently five 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 North America and the South-West Pacific

    The United States participates as an active member of the 
Coordinating Committee for North America and the South-West Pacific, 
and is informed of the other coordinating committees through meeting 
documents, final reports, and representation at meetings.
    Each regional committee:

--Defines the problems and needs of the region concerning food 
standards and food control;
--Promotes within the committee contacts for the mutual exchange of 
information on proposed regulatory initiatives and problems arising 
from food control and stimulates the strengthening of food control 
infrastructures;
--Recommends to the Commission the development of world-wide standards 
for products of interest to the region, including products considered 
by the committee to have an international market potential in the 
future; and
--Exercises a general coordinating role for the region and such other 
functions as may be entrusted to it by the Commission.

Codex Coordinating Committee for North America and the South-West 
Pacific

    The Coordinating Committee is responsible for defining problems and 
needs concerning food standards and food control of all Codex member 
countries of the regions. The Fifth Session of the Committee is to be 
held October 6-9, 1998, in the United States. It will address the 
following matters of interest to the Commission:
     Report on Activities Related to Risk Analysis in Codex and 
Other Bodies;
     Review and Promotion of Acceptances of Codex Standards and 
Codex Maximum Residue Limits for Pesticides by Countries in the Region;
     Information and Reports on Food Safety, Food Control and 
Food Standards Issues in the Region;
     Promotion of Codex Activities in the Region; and
     Consumer Participation in Codex Work and Related Matters.
    Agency Responsible: USDA/FSIS.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Appendix 1--U.S. Codex Alimentarius Officials

Codex Committee Chairpersons

Mr. Steven N. Tanner, Director, Technical Services Division, Grain 
Inspection, Packers & Stockyards, Administration, U.S. Department of 
Agriculture, 10383 N. Executive Hills Blvd., Kansas City, MO 64153-
1394, Phone #: [phone], Fax #: [phone]--Cereals, 
Pulses and Legumes (adjourned Sine Die)
Dr. I. Kaye Wachsmuth, Deputy Administrator, Office of Public Health 
and Science, Food Safety and Inspection Service, U.S. Department of 
Agriculture, Room 341-E, Jamie L. Whitten Federal Building, 1400 
Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20250-3700, Phone 
#[phone], Fax # [phone]--Food Hygiene
Mr. David L. Priester, International Standards Coordinator, Fresh 
Products Branch, Fruit and Vegetable Programs, Agricultural 
Marketing Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, P.O. Box 96456, 
Room 2069, South Agriculture Building, Washington, DC 20090-6456, 
Phone #: [phone], Fax #: [phone]--Processed Fruits and 
Vegetables
Dr. Stephen F. Sundlof, Director, Center for Veterinary Medicine, 
Food and Drug Administration 7500 Standish Place (HFV-1), Rockville, 
MD 20855, Phone #: [phone], Fax #: [phone]--Residues 
of Veterinary Drugs in Foods

            Listing of U.S. Delegates and Alternate Delegates           
              [Worldwide General Subject Codex Committees]              
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                        
------------------------------------------------------------------------
        Codex Committee on Residues of Veterinary Drugs in Foods        
                    (Host Government--United States)                    
------------------------------------------------------------------------
U.S. Delegate..........................  Dr. Robert C. Livingston,      
                                          Director, Office of New       
                                          Animal, Drug Evaluation,      
                                          Center for Veterinary Medicine
                                          (HFV-100), Food and Drug      
                                          Administration, 7500 Standish 
                                          Place, Rockville, MD 20855,   
                                          Phone #: [phone] Fax #:
                                          [phone].               
Alternate Delegate.....................  Dr. Pat Basu, Director,        
                                          Chemistry and Toxicology      
                                          Division, Office of Public    
                                          Health and Science, Food      
                                          Safety and Inspection Service,
                                          U.S. Department of            
                                          Agriculture, 6912 Franklin    
                                          Court, 1099 14th Street, NW,  
                                          Washington, DC 20250-3700,    
                                          Phone #: [phone], Fax: 
                                          [phone].               
------------------------------------------------------------------------
           Codex Committee on Food Additives and Contaminants           
                   (Host Government--The Netherlands)                   
------------------------------------------------------------------------
U.S. Delegate..........................  Dr. Alan Rulis, Director,      
                                          Office of Premarket Approval, 
                                          Center for Food Safety and    
                                          Applied Nutrition, Food and   
                                          Drug Administration, 200 C    
                                          Street, SW, (HFS-200),        
                                          Washington, DC 20204, Phone #:
                                          [phone], Fax #: (202)  
                                          418-3131.                     
Alternate Delegate.....................  Dr. Terry C. Troxell, Director,
                                          Division of Programs and      
                                          Enforcement Policy, Center for
                                          Food Safety and Applied       
                                          Nutrition, Food and Drug      
                                          Administration 200 C Street,  
                                          SW, (HFS-456), Washington, DC 
                                          20204, Phone #: (202) 205-    
                                          5321, Fax #: [phone].  
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
[[Page 28977]]

                                                                        
                  Codex Committee on Pesticide Residues                 
                   (Host Government--The Netherlands)                   
------------------------------------------------------------------------
U.S. Delegate..........................  Mr. Fred Ives, Health Effects  
                                          Division (7509C), Office of   
                                          Pesticide Programs, U.S.      
                                          Environmental Protection      
                                          Agency 401 M Street, SW,      
                                          Washington, DC 20460, Phone #:
                                          [phone], Fax #: (703)  
                                          305-5147, E-mail:             
                                          [e-mail].    
Alternate Delegate.....................  Dr. Richard Parry, Jr.,        
                                          Assistant Administrator,      
                                          Cooperative Interactions,     
                                          Agricultural Research Service,
                                          U.S. Department of            
                                          Agriculture, Room 358-A, Jamie
                                          L. Whitten Federal Bldg.,     
                                          Washington, DC 20250-3700,    
                                          Phone #: [phone] Fax #:
                                          [phone].               
------------------------------------------------------------------------
           Codex Committee on Methods of Analysis and Sampling          
                       (Host Government--Hungary)                       
------------------------------------------------------------------------
U.S. Delegate..........................  Dr. William Horwitz, Scientific
                                          Advisor, Center for Food      
                                          Safety and Applied, Nutrition 
                                          (HFS-500), Food and Drug      
                                          Administration, Room 3832, 200
                                          C Street, SW, Washington, DC  
                                          20204, Phone #: (202) 205-    
                                          4346, Fax #: [phone].  
Alternate Delegate.....................  Mr. William Franks, Director,  
                                          Science and Technology        
                                          Division, Agricultural        
                                          Marketing Service, U.S.       
                                          Department of Agriculture,    
                                          Room 3507, South Agriculture  
                                          Building, 1400 Independence   
                                          Avenue, SW, Washington, DC    
                                          20250-3700, Phone #: (202) 720-
                                          5231, Fax #: [phone].  
------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Codex Committee on Food Import and Export Certification and Inspection
                                Systems                                 
                      (Host Government--Australia)                      
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Delegate...............................  VACANT.                        
Alternate Delegate.....................  Mr. Mark Manis, Director,      
                                          International Policy          
                                          Development Division, Office  
                                          of Policy, Program            
                                          Development, and Evaluation,  
                                          Food Safety and Inspection    
                                          Service, U.S. Department of   
                                          Agriculture, Room 4434, South 
                                          Agriculture Building, 1400    
                                          Independence Avenue, SW,      
                                          Washington, DC 20250-3700,    
                                          Phone #: [phone], Fax  
                                          #: [phone].            
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                  Codex Committee on General Principles                 
                        (Host Government--France)                       
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Delegate...............................  Note: A member of the Steering 
                                          Committee heads the delegation
                                          to meetings of the General    
                                          Principles Committee.         
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                    Codex Committee on Food Labelling                   
                        (Host Government--Canada)                       
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Delegate...............................  Ms. Elizabeth J. Campbell,     
                                          Acting Director, Office of    
                                          Food Labeling, Center for Food
                                          Safety and Applied Nutrition  
                                          (HFS-150), Food and Drug      
                                          Administration, 200 C Street, 
                                          SW, Room 1832, Washington, DC 
                                          20204, Phone #: (202) 205-    
                                          4561, Fax #: [phone].  
Alternate Delegate.....................  Dr. Robert Post, Director,     
                                          Labeling & Compounds Review   
                                          Division, Office of Policy,   
                                          Program Development, and      
                                          Evaluation, Food Safety and   
                                          Inspection Service, U.S.      
                                          Department of Agriculture,    
                                          Room 602, Cotton Annex,       
                                          Washington, DC 20250-3700,    
                                          Phone #: [phone], Fax  
                                          #: [phone].            
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                     Codex Committee on Food Hygiene                    
                    (Host Government--United States)                    
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Acting Delegate........................  Mr. E. Spencer Garrett,        
                                          Director, National Seafood    
                                          Inspection Laboratory,        
                                          National Marine Fisheries, 705
                                          Convent Street, Pascagoulla,  
                                          MS 39568-1207, Phone #: (601) 
                                          769-8964, Fax #: (601) 762-   
                                          7144.                         
Alternate Delegate.....................  VACANT.                        
------------------------------------------------------------------------
     Codex Committee on Nutrition and Foods for Special Dietary Uses    
                       (Host Government--Germany)                       
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Delegate...............................  Dr. Elizabeth Yetley, Director,
                                          Office of Special             
                                          Nutritionals, Center for Food 
                                          Safety and Applied Nutrition, 
                                          Food and Drug Administration, 
                                          200 C Street, SW (HFS-450),   
                                          Washington, DC 20204, Phone #:
                                          [phone], Fax #: (202)  
                                          205-5295.                     
Alternate Delegate.....................  Dr. Robert J. Moore, Senior    
                                          Regulatory Scientist, Center  
                                          for Food Safety and Applied   
                                          Nutrition, Food and Drug      
                                          Administration, 200 C Street, 
                                          SW (HFS-456), Washington, DC  
                                          20204, Phone #: (202) 205-    
                                          4605, Fax #: [phone].  
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
[[Page 28978]]

                                                                        
             Codex Committee on Fresh Fruits And Vegetables             
                        (Host Government--Mexico)                       
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Delegate...............................  Mr. David L. Priester,         
                                          International Standards       
                                          Coordinator, Fresh Products   
                                          Branch, Fruit and Vegetable   
                                          Programs, Agricultural        
                                          Marketing Service, U.S.       
                                          Department of Agriculture,    
                                          P.O. Box 96456, Room 2069,    
                                          South Agriculture Building,   
                                          Washington, DC 20090-6456,    
                                          Phone #: [phone], Fax  
                                          #: [phone].            
Alternate Delegate.....................  Mr. Larry B. Lace, Branch      
                                          Chief, Fresh Products Branch, 
                                          Fruits and Vegetable Division,
                                          Agricultural Marketing        
                                          Service, U.S. Department of   
                                          Agriculture, Room 2049, South 
                                          Agriculture Building, 1400    
                                          Independence Avenue, SW,      
                                          Washington, DC 20090-6456,    
                                          Phone #: [phone], Fax  
                                          #: [phone].            
------------------------------------------------------------------------
              Codex Committee on Fish and Fishery Products              
                        (Host Government--Norway)                       
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Delegate...............................  Mr. Philip C. Spiller,         
                                          Director, Office of Seafood   
                                          (HFS-400) VERB, Center for    
                                          Food Safety and Applied       
                                          Nutrition, Food and Drug      
                                          Administration, 200 C Street, 
                                          SW, Washington, DC 20204,     
                                          Phone #: [phone], Fax  
                                          #: [phone].            
Alternate Delegate.....................  Mr. Samuel W. McKeen, Director,
                                          Office of Trade and Industry  
                                          Services, National Oceanic and
                                          Atmospheric Administration,   
                                          NMFS, 1335 East-West Highway, 
                                          Room 6490, Silver Spring, MD  
                                          20910, Phone #: (301) 713-    
                                          2351, Fax #: [phone].  
------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Codex Committee on Milk and Milk Products                
                     (Host Government--New Zealand)                     
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Delegate...............................  Mr. Duane Spomer, Chief, Dairy 
                                          Standardization Branch, U.S.  
                                          Department of Agriculture,    
                                          Agricultural Marketing        
                                          Service, Room 2750, South     
                                          Agriculture Building, 1400    
                                          Independence Avenue, SW,      
                                          Washington, DC 20250-0230,    
                                          Phone #: [phone], Fax  
                                          #: [phone].            
Alternate Delegate.....................  Mr. John C. Mowbray, Division  
                                          of Programs and Enforcement   
                                          Policy, Center for Food Safety
                                          and Applied Nutrition, Food   
                                          and Drug Administration, 200 C
                                          Street, SW (HFS-306),         
                                          Washington, DC 20204, Phone #:
                                          [phone], Fax #: (202)  
                                          205-4422.                     
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                    Codex Committee on Fats and Oils                    
                    (Host Government--United Kingdom)                   
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Delegate...............................  Mr. Charles W. Cooper,         
                                          Director, International       
                                          Activities Staff, Center for  
                                          Food Safety and Applied       
                                          Nutrition, Food and Drug      
                                          Administration, 200 C Street, 
                                          SW, Room 5823 (HFS-585),      
                                          Washington, DC 20204, Phone #:
                                          [phone], Fax #: (202)  
                                          401-7739.                     
Alternate Delegate.....................  Dr. Dwayne Buxton, National    
                                          Program Leader for Oilseeds   
                                          and Bioscience, Agricultural  
                                          Research Service, Room 212,   
                                          Building 005, BARC West,      
                                          Beltsville, MD 20705, Phone #:
                                          [phone], Fax #: (301)  
                                          504-5467.                     
------------------------------------------------------------------------
           Codex Committee on Processed Fruits and Vegetables           
                    (Host Government--United States)                    
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Delegate...............................  Mr. Richard B. Boyd, Senior    
                                          Marketing Specialist, Fruit   
                                          and Vegetable Division,       
                                          Agriculture Marketing Service,
                                          U.S. Department of            
                                          Agriculture, Room 0717, South 
                                          Agriculture Building, 1400    
                                          Independence Avenue, SW,      
                                          Washington, DC 20090-0247,    
                                          Phone #: [phone], Fax  
                                          #: [phone].            
Alternate Delegate.....................  Mr. Charles W. Cooper,         
                                          Director, International       
                                          Activities Staff, Center for  
                                          Food Safety and Applied       
                                          Nutrition, Food and Drug      
                                          Administration, 200 C Street, 
                                          SW, Room 5823 (HFS-585),      
                                          Washington, DC 20204, Phone #:
                                          [phone], Fax #: (202)  
                                          401-7739.                     
------------------------------------------------------------------------
            Codex Committee on Cocoa Products and Chocolate             
                     (Host Government--Switzerland)                     
------------------------------------------------------------------------
U.S. Delegate..........................  Mr. Charles W. Cooper,         
                                          Director, International       
                                          Activities Staff, Center for  
                                          Food Safety and Applied       
                                          Nutrition, Food and Drug      
                                          Administration, 200 C Street, 
                                          SW, Room 5823 (HFS-585),      
                                          Washington, DC 20204, Phone #:
                                          [phone], Fax #: (202)  
                                          401-7739.                     
Alternate Delegate.....................  Dr. Michelle Smith, Food       
                                          Technologist, Office of Food  
                                          Labeling, Center for Food     
                                          Safety and Applied Nutrition  
                                          (HFS-158), 200 C Street, SW,  
                                          Washington, DC 20204, Phone #:
                                          [phone], Fax #: (202)  
                                          205-4594.                     
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
[[Page 28979]]

                                                                        
               Codex Committee on Natural Mineral Waters                
                     (Host Government--Switzerland)                     
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Delegate...............................  Dr. Terry C. Troxell, Director,
                                          Division of Programs and      
                                          Enforcement Policy, Center for
                                          Food Safety and Applied       
                                          Nutrition, Food and Drug      
                                          Administration, 200 C Street, 
                                          SW (HFS-305), Washington, DC  
                                          20204, Phone #: (202) 205-    
                                          5321, Fax #: [phone].  
Alternate Delegate.....................  Ms. Shellee Davis, Division of 
                                          Programs and Enforcement      
                                          Policy, Center for Food Safety
                                          and Applied Nutrition, Food   
                                          and Drug Administration, 200 C
                                          Street, SW (HFS-306),         
                                          Washington, DC 20204, Phone #:
                                          [phone], Fax #: (202)  
                                          205-4422.                     
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                        Codex Committee On Sugars                       
                   (Host Government--United Kingdom)                    
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Delegate...............................  VACANT.                        
Alternate Delegate.....................  Dennis M. Keefe, Office of     
                                          Premarket Approval Center for 
                                          Food Safety and Applied       
                                          Nutrition, Food and Drug      
                                          Administration 200 C Street,  
                                          SW (HFS-206), Washington, DC  
                                          20204, Phone #: (202) 418-    
                                          3113, Fax #: [phone].  
           Codex Committee on Cereals, Pulses And Legumes \1\           
                    (Host Government--United States)                    
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Delegate...............................  Mr. Charles W. Cooper,         
                                          Director, International       
                                          Activities Staff, Center for  
                                          Food Safety and Applied       
                                          Nutrition, Room 5823 (HFS-    
                                          585), Food and Drug           
                                          Administration, 200 C Street, 
                                          SW, Washington, DC 20204,     
                                          Phone #: [phone], Fax  
                                          #: [phone].            
Alternate Delegate.....................  Mr. David Shipman, Deputy      
                                          Administrator, Grain          
                                          Inspection Packers and        
                                          Stockyards Administration,    
                                          U.S. Department of            
                                          Agriculture, Room 1092, South 
                                          Agriculture Building, 1400    
                                          Independence Avenue, SW,      
                                          Washington, DC 20250-3601,    
                                          Phone #: [phone], Fax  
                                          #: [phone].            
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                 Codex Committee on Soups and broths \1\                
                     (Host Government--Switzerland)                     
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Delegate...............................  Mr. Charles Edwards, Director, 
                                          Labeling, Products and        
                                          Technology Standards Division,
                                          Office of Policy, Program     
                                          Development and Evaluation,   
                                          Food Safety and Inspection    
                                          Service, U.S. Department of   
                                          Agriculture, Room 405, Cotton 
                                          Annex, 300 C Street, SW,      
                                          Washington, DC 20250-3700,    
                                          Phone #: [phone], Fax  
                                          #: [phone].            
Alternate Delegate.....................  Dr. Robert Post, Director,     
                                          Labeling and Compounds Review 
                                          Division, Office of Policy,   
                                          Program Development and       
                                          Evaluation, Food Safety and   
                                          Inspection Service, U.S.      
                                          Department of Agriculture,    
                                          Room 602, Cotton Annex, 300 C 
                                          Street, SW, Washington, DC    
                                          20250-3700, Phone #: (202) 205-
                                          0279, Fax #: [phone].  
                Codedx Committee on Vegetable proteins\1\               
                       (Host Government--Canada)                        
------------------------------------------------------------------------
U.S. Delegate..........................  Dr. Wilda H. Martinez,         
                                          Associate Deputy              
                                          Administrator, Aqua Products  
                                          and Human Nutrition, Sciences,
                                          U.S. Department of            
                                          Agriculture, Agricultural     
                                          Research Service, Room 107, B-
                                          005, Beltsville, MD 20705,    
                                          Phone #: [phone], Fax  
                                          #: [phone].            
Alternate Delegate.....................  Ms. Elizabeth J. Campbell,     
                                          Acting Director, Office of    
                                          Food Labeling, Center for Food
                                          Safety and Applied Nutrition, 
                                          Food and Drug Administration, 
                                          200 C Street, SW (HFS-150),   
                                          Washington, DC 20204, Phone #:
                                          [phone], Fax #: (202)  
                                          205-4594,                     
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                   Codex Committee on Meat Hygiene \1\                  
                     (Host Government--New Zealand)                     
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Delegate...............................  Dr. John Prucha, Assistant     
                                          Deputy Administrator,         
                                          International and Domestic    
                                          Policy, Food Safety and       
                                          Inspection Service, U.S.      
                                          Department of Agriculture,    
                                          Room 4866, South Agriculture  
                                          Building, Washington, DC 20250-
                                          3700, Phone #: [phone],
                                          Fax #: [phone].        
Alternate Delegate.....................  Vacant.                        
------------------------------------------------------------------------
       Codex Committee on Processed Meat and Poultry Products \1\       
                       (Host Government--Denmark)                       
------------------------------------------------------------------------
U.S. Delegate..........................  Mr. Daniel Engeljohn, Branch   
                                          Chief, Standards Development  
                                          Branch, Inspection Systems    
                                          Development Division, Office  
                                          of Policy, Program Development
                                          and Evaluation, Food Safety   
                                          and Inspection Service, U.S.  
                                          Department of Agriculture,    
                                          Room 405, Cotton Annex, 300 C 
                                          Street, SW, Washington, DC    
                                          20250-3700, Phone #: (202) 205-
                                          0210, Fax #: [phone].  

[[Page 28980]]

                                                                        
Alternate Delegate.....................  Mr. Charles Edwards, Director, 
                                          Labeling, Products and        
                                          Technology Standards Division,
                                          Office of Policy, Program     
                                          Development and Evaluation,   
                                          Food Safety and Inspection    
                                          Service, U.S. Department of   
                                          Agriculture, Room 405, Cotton 
                                          Annex, 300 C Street, SW,      
                                          Washington, DC 20250-3700,    
                                          Phone #: [phone], Fax  
                                          #: [phone].            
------------------------------------------------------------------------
          Joint U.N.E.C.E. Codex Alimentarius Groups of Experts         
   Joint ECE/Codex Alimentarius Group of Experts on Standardization of  
                         Quick Frozen Foods \1\                         
------------------------------------------------------------------------
U.S. Delegate..........................  Mr. Richard B. Boyd, Senior    
                                          Marketing Specialist, Fruit   
                                          and Vegetable Division,       
                                          Agricultural Marketing        
                                          Service, U.S. Department of   
                                          Agriculture, Room 0717, South 
                                          Agriculture Building, 1400    
                                          Independence Avenue, SW,      
                                          Washington, DC 20090-0247,    
                                          Phone #: [phone], Fax  
                                          #: [phone].            
1Alternate Delegate....................  Mr. Charles W. Cooper,         
                                          Director, International       
                                          Activities Staff, Center for  
                                          Food Safety and Applied       
                                          Nutrition, Room 5823 (HFS-    
                                          585), Food and Drug           
                                          Administration, 200 C Street, 
                                          SW, Washington, DC 20204,     
                                          Phone #: [phone], Fax  
                                          #: [phone].            
------------------------------------------------------------------------
             Joint ECE/Codex Alimentarius Group of Experts              
                 on Standardization of Fruit Juices \1\                 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
U.S. Delegate..........................  Mr. Charles W. Cooper,         
                                          Director, International       
                                          Activities Staff, Center for  
                                          Food Safety and Applied       
                                          Nutrition, Room 5823 (HFS-    
                                          585), Food and Drug           
                                          Administration, 200 C Street, 
                                          SW, Washington, DC 20204,     
                                          Phone #: [phone], Fax  
                                          #: [phone].            
Alternate Delegate.....................  Mr. Richard B. Boyd, Senior    
                                          Marketing Specialist, Fruit   
                                          and Vegetable Division,       
                                          Agricultural Marketing        
                                          Service, U.S. Department of   
                                          Agriculture, Room 0717,       
                                          Agriculture South Building,   
                                          1400 Independence Avenue, SW, 
                                          Washington, DC 20090-0247,    
                                          Phone #: [phone], Fax  
                                          #: [phone].            
------------------------------------------------------------------------
              Subsidiary Bodies of the Codex Alimentarius               
------------------------------------------------------------------------
There are five regional coordinating                                    
 committees:                                                            
    Coordinating Committee for Africa                                   
    Coordinating Committee for Asia                                     
    Coordinating Committee for Europe                                   
    Coordinating Committee for Latin                                    
     America and the Caribbean, and                                     
    Coordinating Committee for North                                    
     America and the South-West Pacific                                 
Contact................................  Mr. Patrick Clerkin, Director, 
                                          U.S. Codex Office, Food Safety
                                          and Inspection Service, U.S.  
                                          Department of Agriculture,    
                                          Room 4861, South Agriculture  
                                          Building, 1400 Independence   
                                          Avenue, SW, Washington, DC    
                                          20250-3700, Phone #: (202) 205-
                                          7760, Fax #: [phone].  
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Adjourned sine die. The main tasks of these Committees are          
  completed. However, the committees may be called to meet again if     
  required.                                                             

Appendix 2--Timetable of Codex Sessions

(June 1997 Through June 1999)

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                                
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1997:                                                                                                           
    CX 702-44..................  Executive Committee of     19-20 June...............  Geneva.                  
                                  the Codex Alimentarius                                                        
                                  Commission (44th                                                              
                                  Session).                                                                     
    CX 701-22..................  CODEX ALIMENTARIUS         23-28 June...............  Geneva.                  
                                  COMMISSION (44th                                                              
                                  Session).                                                                     
    CX 731-7...................  Codex Committee on Fresh   8-12 September...........  Mexico City.             
                                  Fruits and Vegetables                                                         
                                  (7th Session).                                                                
    CX 712-30..................  Codex Committee on Food    20-24 October............  Washington, DC.          
                                  Hygiene (30th Session).                                                       
    CX 727-11..................  Codex Regional             16-19 December...........  Chiang Rai.              
                                  Coordinating Committee                                                        
                                  for Asia (11th Session).                                                      
1998:                                                                                                           
    CX 733-6...................  Codex Committee on Food    23-27 February...........  Melbourne.               
                                  Import and Export                                                             
                                  Certification and                                                             
                                  Inspection (6th Session).                                                     
    CX 711-30..................  Codex Committee on Food    9-13 March...............  The Hague.               
                                  Additives and                                                                 
                                  Contaminants (30th                                                            
                                  Session).                                                                     
    CX 713-20..................  Codex Committee on         16-20 March..............  Washington, DC.          
                                  Processed Fruits and                                                          
                                  Vegetables (19th                                                              
                                  Session).                                                                     
    CX 718-30..................  Codex Committee on         20-25 April..............  The Hague.               
                                  Pesticide Residues (30th                                                      
                                  Session).                                                                     
    CX 719-21..................  Codex Regional             5-8 May..................  Madrid.                  
                                  Coordinating Committee                                                        
                                  for Europe (21st                                                              
                                  Session).                                                                     
    CX 703-3...................  Codex Committee on Milk    18-22 May................  Montevideo.              
                                  and Milk Products (3rd                                                        
                                  Session).                                                                     
    CX 714-26..................  Codex Committee on Food    25-29 May................  Ottawa.                  
                                  Labelling (26th Session).                                                     
    CX 702-45..................  Executive Committee of     3-5 June.................  Rome.                    
                                  the Codex Alimentarius                                                        
                                  Commission (45th                                                              
                                  Session).                                                                     
    CX 722-23..................  Codex Committee on Fish    8-12 June................  Bergen.                  
                                  and Fishery Products                                                          
                                  (23rd Session).                                                               
    CX 716-13..................  Codex Committee on         7-11 September...........  Paris.                   
                                  General Principals (13th                                                      
                                  Session).                                                                     
    CX 730-11..................  Codex Committee on         14-17 September..........  Washington, DC.          
                                  Residues of Veterinary                                                        
                                  Drugs in Foods (11th                                                          
                                  Session).                                                                     
    CX 720-21..................  Codex Committee on         21-25 September..........  Berlin.                  
                                  Nutrition and Foods for                                                       
                                  Special Dietary Uses                                                          
                                  (21st Session).                                                               
    CX 732-5...................  Codex Regional             6-9 October..............  TBA.                     
                                  Coordinating Committee                                                        
                                  for North America and                                                         
                                  the South-West Pacific                                                        
                                  (5th Session).                                                                

[[Page 28981]]

                                                                                                                
    CX 712-31..................  Codex Committee on Food    26-30 October............  Washington, DC.          
                                  Hygiene (31st Session).                                                       
    CX 707-13..................  Codex Regional             3-6 November.............  Harare.                  
                                  Coordinating Committee                                                        
                                  for Africa (13th                                                              
                                  Session).                                                                     
    CX 708-17..................  Codex Committee on Cocoa   16-18 November...........  Switzerland.             
                                  Products and Chocolate                                                        
                                  (17th Session).                                                               
    CX 719-6...................  Codex Committee on         19-21 November...........  Switzerland.             
                                  Natural Mineral Waters                                                        
                                  (6th Session).                                                                
    CX 715-22..................  Codex Committee on         23-27 November...........  Budapest.                
                                  Methods of Analysis and                                                       
                                  Sampling (22nd Session).                                                      
    CX 725-11..................  Codex Regional             8-11 December............  Montevideo.              
                                  Coordinating Committee                                                        
                                  for Latin America and                                                         
                                  the Caribbean (11th                                                           
                                  Session).                                                                     
1999:                                                                                                           
    CX 733-7...................  Codex Committee on Food    22-26 February...........  TBA.                     
                                  Import and Export                                                             
                                  Certification and                                                             
                                  Inspection (7th Session).                                                     
    CX 731-8...................  Codex Committee on Fresh   1-5 March................  Mexico City.             
                                  Fruits and Vegetables                                                         
                                  (8th Session).                                                                
    CX 709-16..................  Codex Committee on Fats    8-12 March...............  London.                  
                                  and Oils (16th Session).                                                      
    CX 711-31..................  Codex Committee on Food    22-26 March..............  The Hague.               
                                  Additives and                                                                 
                                  Contaminants (31st                                                            
                                  Session).                                                                     
    CX 718-31..................  Codex Committee on         12-17 April..............  The Hague.               
                                  Pesticide Residues (31st                                                      
                                  Session).                                                                     
    CX 714-27..................  Codex Committee on Food    19-23 April..............  Ottawa.                  
                                  Labelling (27th Session).                                                     
    CX 716-13..................  Codex Committee on         26-30 April..............  Paris.                   
                                  General Principles (14th                                                      
                                  Session).                                                                     
    CX 702-46..................  Executive Committee of     24-25 June...............  Rome.                    
                                  the Codex Alimentarius                                                        
                                  Commission (46th                                                              
                                  Session).                                                                     
    CX 701-23..................  Codex Alimentarius         28 June-3 July...........  Rome.                    
                                  Commission (23rd                                                              
                                  Session).                                                                     
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Appendix 3--Definitions for the Purpose of Codex Alimentarius

    Words and phrases have specific meanings when used by the Codex 
Alimentarius. For the purposes of Codex, the following definitions 
apply:
    1. Food means any substance, whether processed, semi-processed 
or raw, which is intended for human consumption, and includes drink, 
chewing gum, and any substance which has been used in the 
manufacture, preparation or treatment of ``food'' but does not 
include cosmetics or tobacco or substances used only as drugs.
    2. Food hygiene comprises conditions and measures necessary for 
the production, processing, storage and distribution of food 
designed to ensure a safe, sound, wholesome product fit for human 
consumption.
    3. Food additive means any substance not normally consumed as a 
food by itself and not normally used as a typical ingredient of the 
food, whether or not it has nutritive value, the intentional 
addition of which to food for a technological (including 
organoleptic) purpose in the manufacture, processing, preparation, 
treatment, packing, packaging, transport, or holding of such food 
results, or may be reasonably expected to result, (directly or 
indirectly) in it or its by-products becoming a component of or 
otherwise affecting the characteristics of such foods. The food 
additive term does not include ``contaminants'' or substances added 
to food for maintaining or improving nutritional qualities.
    4. Contaminant means any substance not intentionally added to 
food, which is present in such food as a result of the production 
(including operations carried out in crop husbandry, animal 
husbandry, and veterinary medicine), manufacture, processing, 
preparation, treatment, packing, packaging, transport or holding of 
such food or as a result of environmental contamination. The term 
does not include insect fragments, rodent hairs and other extraneous 
matters.
    5. Pesticide means any substance intended for preventing, 
destroying, attracting, repelling, or controlling any pest including 
unwanted species of plants or animals during the production, 
storage, transport, distribution and processing of food, 
agricultural commodities, or animal feeds or which may be 
administered to animals for the control of ectoparasites. The term 
includes substances intended for use as a plant-growth regulator, 
defoliant, desiccant, fruit thinning agent, or sprouting inhibitor 
and substances applied to crops either before or after harvest to 
protect the commodity from deterioration during storage and 
transport. The term pesticides excludes fertilizers, plant and 
animal nutrients, food additives, and animal drugs.
    6. Pesticide residue means any specified substance in food, 
agricultural commodities, or animal feed resulting from the use of a 
pesticide. The term includes any derivatives of a pesticide, such as 
conversion products, metabolites, reaction products, and impurities 
considered to be of toxological significance.
    7. Good Agricultural Practice in the Use of Pesticides (GAP) 
includes the nationally authorized safe uses of pesticides under 
actual conditions necessary for effective and reliable pest control. 
It encompasses a range of levels of pesticide applications up to the 
highest authorized use, applied in a manner which leaves a residue 
which is the smallest amount practicable.
    Authorized safe uses are determined at the national level and 
include nationally registered or recommended uses, which take into 
account public and occupational health and environmental safety 
considerations.
    Actual conditions include any stage in the production, storage, 
transport, distribution and processing of food commodities and 
animal feed.
    8. Codex Maximum Limit for Pesticide Residues (MRLP) is the 
maximum concentration of a pesticide residue (expressed as mg/kg), 
recommended by the Codex Alimentarius Commission to be legally 
permitted in or on food commodities and animal feeds. MRLPs are 
based on their toxological affects and on GAP data and foods derived 
from commodities that comply with the respective MRLPs are intended 
to be toxologically acceptable.
    Codex MRLPs, which are primarily intended to apply in 
international trade, are derived from reviews conducted by the JMPR 
following:
    (a) toxological assessment of the pesticide and its residue, and
    (b) review of residue data from supervised trials and supervised 
uses including those reflecting national good agricultural 
practices. Data from supervised trials conducted at the highest 
nationally recommended, authorized, or registered uses are included 
in the review. In order to accommodate variations in national pest 
control requirements, Codex MRLPs take into account the higher 
levels shown to arise in such supervised trials, which are 
considered to represent effective pest control practices.
    Consideration of the various dietary residue intake estimates 
and determinations both at the national and international level in 
comparison with the ADI, should indicate that foods complying with 
Codex MRLPs are safe for human consumption.
    9. Veterinary Drug means any substance applied or administered 
to any food-producing animal, such as meat or milk-producing 
animals, poultry, fish or bees, whether used for therapeutic, 
prophylactic or diagnostic purposes or for modification of 
physiological functions or behavior.
    10. Residues of Veterinary Drugs include the parent compounds 
and/or their metabolites in any edible portion of the animal 
product, and include residues of associated impurities of the 
veterinary drug concerned.
    11. Codex Maximum Limit for Residues of Veterinary Drugs (MRLVD) 
is the maximum concentration of residue resulting from the use of a 
veterinary drug (expressed in mg/kg or g/kg on a fresh 
weight basis) that is recommended by the Codex Alimentarius 
Commission to be legally permitted or recognized as acceptable in or 
on food.
    An MRLVD is based on the type and amount of residue considered 
to be without any toxological hazard for human health as expressed 
by the Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI), or on the basis of a temporary 
ADI that utilizes an additional safety factor. An MRLVD also takes 
into account other relevant public health risks as well as food 
technological aspects.
    When establishing an MRLVD, consideration is also given to 
residues that occur in food of plant origin and/or the environment. 
Furthermore, the MRLVD may be reduced to be consistent with good 
practices in the use of veterinary drugs and to the extent that 
practical and analytical methods are available.
    12. Good Practice in the Use of Veterinary Drugs (GPVD)is the 
official recommended or authorized usage including withdrawal

[[Page 28982]]

periods approved by national authorities, of veterinary drugs under 
practicable conditions.
    13. Processing Aid means any substance or material, not 
including apparatus or utensils, not consumed as a food ingredient 
by itself, intentionally used in the processing of raw materials, 
foods or its ingredients, to fulfill a certain technological purpose 
during treatment or processing and which may result in the non-
intentional but unavoidable presence of residues or derivatives in 
the final product.

Appendix 4

Part 1--Uniform Procedure for the Elaboration of Codex, Standards and 
Related Texts

Steps 1, 2 and 3

    (1) The Commission decides, taking into account the ``Criteria 
for the Establishment of Work Priorities and for the Establishment 
of Subsidiary Bodies,'' to elaborate a Worldwide Codex Standard and 
also decides which subsidiary body or other body should undertake 
the work. A decision to elaborate a Worldwide Codex Standard may 
also be taken by subsidiary bodies of the Commission in accordance 
with the above-mentioned criteria, subject to subsequent approval by 
the Commission or its Executive Committee at the earliest possible 
opportunity. In the case of Codex Regional Standards, the Commission 
shall base its decision on the proposal of the majority of members 
belonging to a given region or group of countries submitted at a 
session of the Codex Alimentarius Commission.
    (2) The Secretariat arranges for the preparation of a proposed 
draft standard. In the case of Maximum Limits for Residues of 
Pesticides or Veterinary Drugs, the Secretariat distributes the 
recommendations for maximum limits, when available from the Joint 
Meetings of the FAO Panel of Experts on Pesticide Residues in Food 
and the Environment and the WHO Panel of Experts on Pesticide 
Residues (JMPR), or the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food 
Additives (JECFA). In the cases of milk and milk products or 
individual standards for cheeses, the Secretariat distributes the 
recommendations of the International Dairy Federation (IDF).
    (3) The proposed draft standard is sent to members of the 
Commission and interested international organizations for comment on 
all aspects including possible implications of the proposed draft 
standard for their economic interests.

Step 4

    The comments received are sent by the Secretariat to the 
subsidiary body or other body concerned which has the power to 
consider such comments and to amend the proposed draft standard.

Step 5 \1\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \1\ Without prejudice to any decision that may be taken by the 
Commission at Step 5, the proposed draft standard may be sent by the 
Secretariat for government comment prior to its consideration at 
Step 5, when, in the opinion of the subsidiary body or other body 
concerned, the time between the relevant session of the Commission 
and the subsequent session of the subsidiary or other body concerned 
requires such actions in order to advance the work.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The proposed draft standard is submitted through the Secretariat 
to the Commission or to the Executive Committee with a view to its 
adoption as a draft standard. When making any decision at this step, 
the Commission or the Executive Committee will give due 
consideration to any comments that may be submitted by any of its 
members regarding the implications which the proposed draft standard 
or any provisions of the standard may have for their economic 
interests. In the case of Regional Standards, all members of the 
Commission may present their comments, take part in the debate and 
propose amendments, but only the majority of the Members of the 
region or group of countries concerned attending the session can 
decide to amend or adopt the draft. When making any decisions at 
this step, the members of the region or group of countries concerned 
will give due consideration to any comments that may be submitted by 
any of the members of the Commission regarding the implications 
which the proposed draft standard or any provisions of the proposed 
draft standard may have for their economic interests.

Step 6

    The draft standard is sent by the Secretariat to all members and 
interested international organizations for comment on all aspects, 
including possible implications of the draft standard for their 
economic interests.

Step 7

    The comments received are sent by the Secretariat to the 
subsidiary body or other body concerned, which has the power to 
consider such comments and amend the draft standard.

Step 8

    The draft standard is submitted through the Secretariat to the 
Commission together with any written proposals received from members 
and interested international organizations for amendments at Step 8 
with a view to its adoption as a Codex Standard. In the case of 
Regional standards, all members and interested international 
organizations may present their comments, take part in the debate 
and propose amendments but only the majority of members of the 
region or group of countries concerned attending the session can 
decide to amend and adopt the draft.

Appendix 4

Part 2--Uniform Accelerated Procedure for the Elaboration of Codex 
Standards and Related Texts

Steps 1, 2 and 3

    (1) The Commission or the Executive Committee between Commission 
sessions, on the basis of a two-thirds majority of votes cast, 
taking into account the ``Criteria for the Establishment of Work 
Priorities and for the Establishment of Subsidiary Bodies'', shall 
identify those standards which shall be the subject of an 
accelerated elaboration process. The identification of such 
standards may also be made by subsidiary bodies of the Commission, 
on the basis of a two-thirds majority of votes cast, subject to 
confirmation at the earliest opportunity by the Commission or its 
Executive Committee by a two-thirds majority of votes cast.
    (2) The Secretariat arranges for the preparation of a proposed 
draft standard. In the case of Maximum Limits for Residues of 
Pesticides or Veterinary Drugs, the Secretariat distributes the 
recommendations for maximum limits, when available from the Joint 
Meetings of the FAO Panel of Experts on Pesticide Residues in Food 
and the Environment and the WHO Panel of Experts on Pesticide 
Residues (JMPR), or the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food 
Additives (JECFA). In the cases of milk and milk products or 
individual standards for cheeses, the Secretariat distributes the 
recommendations of the International Dairy Federation (IDF).
    (3) The proposed draft standard is sent to Members of the 
Commission and interested international organizations for comment on 
all aspects including possible implications of the proposed draft 
standard for their economic interests. When standards are subject to 
an accelerated procedure, this fact shall be notified to the Members 
of the Commission and the interested international organizations.

Step 4

    The comments received are sent by the Secretariat to the 
subsidiary body or other body concerned which has the power to 
consider such comments and to amend the proposed draft standard.

Step 5

    In the case of standards identified as being subject to an 
accelerated elaboration procedure, the draft standard is submitted 
through the Secretariat to the Commission together with any written 
proposals received from Members and interested international 
organizations for amendments with a view to its adoption as a Codex 
standard. In taking any decision at this step, the Commission will 
give due consideration to any comments that may be submitted by any 
of its Members regarding the implications which the proposed draft 
standard or any provisions thereof may have for their economic 
interests.

Appendix 5--Nature of Codex Standards

    Codex standards contain requirements for food aimed at ensuring 
for the consumer a sound, wholesome food product free from 
adulteration, and correctly labelled. A Codex standard for any food 
or foods should be drawn up in accordance with the Format for Codex 
Commodity Standards and contain, as appropriate, the criteria listed 
therein.

[[Page 28983]]

FORMAT FOR CODEX COMMODITY STANDARDS INCLUDING STANDARDS ELABORATED 
UNDER THE CODE OF PRINCIPLES CONCERNING MILK AND MILK PRODUCTS

Introduction

    The format is also intended for use as a guide by the subsidiary 
bodies of the Codex Alimentarius Commission in presenting their 
standards, with the object of achieving, as far as possible, a 
uniform presentation of commodity standards. The format also 
indicates the statements which should be included in standards as 
appropriate under the relevant headings of the standard. The 
sections of the format required to be completed for a standard are 
only those provisions that are appropriate to an international 
standard for the food in question.

Name of the Standard
Scope
Description
Essential Composition and Quality Factors
Food Additives
Contaminants
Hygiene
Weights and Measures
Labelling
Methods of Analysis and Sampling

Format for Codex Standards

Name of the Standard

    The name of the standard should be clear and as concise as 
possible. It should usually be the common name by which the food 
covered by the standard is known or, if more than one food is dealt 
with in the standard, by a generic name covering them all. If a 
fully informative title is inordinately long, a subtitle could be 
added.

Scope

    This section should contain a clear, concise statement as to the 
food or foods to which the standard is applicable unless the name of 
the standard clearly and concisely identifies the food or foods. A 
generic standard covering more than one specific product should 
clearly identify the specific products to which the standard 
applies.

Description

    This section should contain a definition of the product or 
products with an indication, where appropriate, of the raw materials 
from which the product or products are derived and any necessary 
references to processes of manufacture. The description may also 
include references to types and styles of product and to type of 
pack. The description may also include additional definitions when 
these additional definitions are required to clarify the meaning of 
the standard.

Essential Composition and Quality Factors

    This section should contain all quantitative and other 
requirements as to composition including, where necessary, identity 
characteristics, provisions on packing media and requirements as to 
compulsory and optional ingredients. It should also include quality 
factors which are essential for the designation, definition, or 
composition of the product concerned. Such factors could include the 
quality of the raw material, with the object of protecting the 
health of the consumer, provisions on taste, odor, color, and 
texture which may be apprehended by the senses, and basic quality 
criteria for the finished products, with the object of preventing 
fraud. This section may refer to tolerances for defects, such as 
blemishes or imperfect material, but this information should be 
contained in appendix to the standard or in another advisory text.

Food Additives

    This section should contain the names of the additives permitted 
and, where appropriate, the maximum amount permitted in the food. It 
should be prepared in accordance with guidance given on pages 93 to 
96 of the Codex Procedural Manual and may take the following form:
    ``The following provisions in respect of food additives and 
their specifications as contained in section * * * of the Codex 
Alimentarius are subject to endorsement [have been endorsed] by the 
Codex Committee on Food Additives and Contaminants.''
    A tabulation should then follow, viz.:
    ``Name of additive, maximum level (in percentage or mg/kg).''

Contaminants

    (a) Pesticide Residues: This section should include, by 
reference, any levels for pesticide residues that have been 
established by the Codex Committee on Pesticide Residues for the 
product concerned.
    (b) Other Contaminants: In addition, this section should contain 
the names of other contaminants and where appropriate the maximum 
level permitted in the food, and the text to appear in the standard 
may take the following form:
    ``The following provisions in respect of contaminants, other 
than pesticide residues, are subject to endorsement [have been 
endorsed] by the Codex Committee on Food Additives and 
Contaminants.''
    A tabulation should then follow, viz.:
    ``Name of contaminant, maximum level (in percentage or mg/kg).''

Hygiene

    Any specific mandatory hygiene provisions considered necessary 
should be included in this section. They should be prepared in 
accordance with the guidance given on pages 96 to 98 of the Codex 
Procedural Manual. Reference should also be made to applicable codes 
of hygienic practice. Any parts of such codes, including in 
particular any end-product specifications, should be set out in the 
standard, if it is considered necessary that they should be made 
mandatory. The following statement should also appear:
    ``The following provisions in respect of the food hygiene of the 
product are subject to endorsement [have been endorsed] by the Codex 
Committee on Food Hygiene.''

Weights and Measures

    This section should include all provisions, other than labelling 
provisions, relating to weights and measures, e.g. where 
appropriate, fill of container, weight, measure or count of units 
determined by an appropriate method of sampling and analysis. 
Weights and measures should be expressed in S.I. units. In the case 
of standards which include provisions for the sale of products in 
standardized amounts, e.g. multiples of 100 grams, S.I. units should 
be used, but this would not preclude additional statements in the 
standards of these standardized amounts in approximately similar 
amounts in other systems of weights and measures.

Labelling

    This section should include all the labelling provisions 
contained in the standard and should be prepared in accordance with 
the guidance given on pages 91 to 93 of the Codex Procedural Manual. 
Provisions should be included by reference to the General Standard 
for the Labelling of Prepackaged Foods. The section may also contain 
provisions which are exemptions from, additions to, or which are 
necessary for the interpretation of the General Standard in respect 
of the product concerned provided that these can be justified fully. 
The following statement should also appear:
    ``The following provisions in respect of the labelling of this 
product are subject to endorsement [have been endorsed] by the Codex 
Committee on Food Labelling.''

Methods of Analysis and Sampling

    This section should include, either specifically or by 
reference, all methods of analysis and sampling considered necessary 
and should be prepared in accordance with the guidance given on 
pages 99 to 102 of the Codex Procedural Manual. If two or more 
methods have been proved to be equivalent by the Codex Committee on 
Methods of Analysis and Sampling, these could be regarded as 
alternative and included in this section either specifically or by 
reference. The following statement should also appear:
    ``The methods of analysis and sampling described hereunder are 
to be endorsed [have been endorsed] by the Codex Committee on 
Methods of Analysis and Sampling.''

[FR Doc. 98-13981 Filed 5-26-98; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3410-DM-P