India has achieved a major milestone in global food safety and quality standards at the 49th Session of the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC49) held in Geneva, Switzerland, from July 6 to July 10, 2026. The Commission adopted seven Codex standards and guidelines developed under India’s leadership while also approving India’s proposal to develop a new international standard for Cashew Kernels, further strengthening the country’s role in shaping global food regulations.
India Plays a Leading Role at CAC49
The Indian delegation was led by Rajit Punhani, Chief Executive Officer of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), along with technical experts from FSSAI and the Spices Board. During the Commission’s discussions, India actively contributed to the development of internationally accepted, science-based food standards aimed at improving food safety and facilitating global trade.
Seven India Led Codex Standards Adopted
The Codex Alimentarius Commission adopted seven important Codex texts that were developed under India’s chairmanship and co-chairmanship.
Standards Developed Under India’s Chairmanship
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India successfully led the development of two new international food standards:
- Codex Standard for Dried Coriander Seeds, which establishes globally accepted quality requirements for one of the world’s most widely traded spices.
- Codex Standard for Fresh Curry Leaves, providing the first international benchmark for the quality and safety of this widely used culinary herb.
These standards are expected to improve international trade while ensuring consistent product quality and consumer confidence.
Five Additional Codex Texts Adopted Under India’s Co Chairmanship
The Commission also adopted five Codex texts developed with India’s co-leadership:
- Codex Standard for Vanilla.
- Codex Standard for Large Cardamom.
- Annexes to the Guidelines for the Safe Use and Reuse of Water in Food Production and Processing, supporting sustainable water management while maintaining food safety.
- Guidelines for the Control of Campylobacter and Salmonella in Chicken Meat to help reduce foodborne illnesses.
- Provisions related to Joint Presentation and Multipack Formats under the General Standard for the Labelling of Prepackaged Foods, improving consistency in food labeling practices.
These standards contribute to stronger food safety systems, greater regulatory harmonization, and improved international trade.
India Wins Approval for Codex Standard on Cashew Kernels
One of India’s biggest achievements during CAC49 was the approval of its proposal to begin developing a Codex Standard for Cashew Kernels under the Codex Committee on Processed Fruits and Vegetables (CCPFV).
The proposal received strong support from Codex Member countries, recognizing the need for globally harmonized quality and safety requirements for cashew kernels.
Once finalized, the standard is expected to:
- Improve international market access for Indian cashew exports.
- Reduce technical barriers to trade.
- Strengthen India’s competitiveness in the global cashew industry.
- Promote fair trade through internationally recognized quality standards.
India Elected Co Chair of New Food Sources Working Group
India has also been elected Co-Chair of the Electronic Working Group on New Food Sources and Production Systems (NFPS).
The working group will examine existing international regulatory frameworks, identify gaps in Codex risk assessment principles, and evaluate whether new guidance is required for emerging food technologies and production systems.
Benefits for Farmers Exporters and Consumers
- The outcomes of CAC49 are expected to deliver significant benefits across India’s food sector.
- For farmers and producers, internationally recognized standards can improve market opportunities and product acceptance.
- For exporters, harmonized regulations help reduce trade barriers and strengthen global competitiveness.
- For food businesses, consistent international standards simplify compliance and improve access to overseas markets.
- For consumers, science-based food standards enhance food safety, quality, and transparency.
India’s Growing Influence in Global Food Governance
India’s achievements at the 49th Codex Alimentarius Commission demonstrate its growing leadership in developing internationally accepted food safety standards. The adoption of seven India-led Codex texts, approval of work on a global standard for cashew kernels, and India’s election as Co-Chair of a key Codex working group highlight the country’s expanding influence in global food regulation.
By continuing to work with the Codex Alimentarius Commission, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the World Health Organization (WHO), and member countries, India aims to support safer food, fair international trade, and stronger consumer protection through science-based global food standards.
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