New Global Spice Standards (Current Events of National And International importance)
New Global Spice Standards (Current Events of National And International importance)
Why In News:
The 49th Session of the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC49) was held in Geneva, Switzerland from 6 to 10 July 2026.
The Commission adopted seven Codex standards and guidelines, several developed under India's chairmanship and co-chairmanship, including new international quality standards covering key spices such as large cardamom, vanilla, and dried coriander seeds, along with the Standard for Fresh Curry Leaves.
India's proposal to begin new work on a Codex Standard for Cashew Kernels was also approved.
Source: PIB Today, 16 July 2026, 'Codex Commission Adopts Global Standards for Spices'
What is the Codex Alimentarius Commission?
It is a joint body of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO), established in 1963, headquartered in Rome.
It sets international food standards, guidelines, and codes of practice to protect consumer health and ensure fair practices in international food trade.
Codex standards serve as the reference standards under the WTO's Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) Agreement, meaning countries can cite Codex standards to settle trade disputes over food safety.
India's Role at CAC49
The Indian delegation was led by the CEO of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), with technical inputs from FSSAI and the Spices Board.
Such standards reduce technical barriers to trade, and strengthen India's global competitiveness, since India is one of the world's largest producers and exporters of spices.
Spice Production in India
India produces 75 out of 109 spice varieties recognized by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), with chilli, cumin, turmeric, ginger, and coriander contributing nearly 76% of total output.
In FY23, garlic, ginger, and chilli emerged as the top three spices in terms of production.
Major spice-producing states include Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Assam.
Key spice exports from India comprise pepper, cardamom, celery, fennel, fenugreek, garlic, nutmeg, curry powder, and spice oils.
Key Facts for Prelims
FSSAI: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is an autonomous statutory body established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
It functions under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India.
The headquarters of FSSAI is located in New Delhi.
Spices Board India functions under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and is headquartered in Kochi, Kerala.