Codex Finalizes New Spice Standards in Guwahati

The 8th Session of the Codex Committee on Spices and Culinary Herbs (CCSCH8) concluded in Guwahati, where three new global standards for large cardamom, vanilla, and coriander were finalised. These standards, recommended for adoption by the Codex Alimentarius Commission, aim to enhance quality, safety, and consistency in the global spice trade, benefiting both producers and consumers.

Finalisation of New Standards

The session marked the finalisation of standards for large cardamom, vanilla, and coriander. This achievement brings the total number of standards developed by CCSCH to 19. The new standards provide globally accepted benchmarks, facilitating smoother market access and strengthening export competitiveness for producers.

About Codex Committee on Spices and Culinary Herbs (CCSCH)

Established in 2013 at India’s behest, the CCSCH is a subsidiary body of the Codex Alimentarius Commission. It focuses on developing global standards for spices and culinary herbs. The Committee is hosted by India, with the Spices Board serving as its Secretariat, playing a pivotal role in shaping international spice standards.

India’s Role and Benefits

India, a leading producer and exporter of large cardamom and coriander, benefits from harmonised global benchmarks that facilitate market access. The Spices Board of India coordinated the session, ensuring adherence to Codex procedures. India’s leadership aligns domestic quality systems with international standards, enhancing its position in the global spice trade.

About Codex Alimentarius Commission

The Codex Alimentarius Commission is a joint body of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO). It develops food standards, guidelines, and codes of practice to protect consumer health and ensure fair trade practices. Codex standards serve as global benchmarks for food safety and quality.

International Collaboration

The session saw active participation from 30 countries, reflecting a shared commitment to harmonised, science-based standards. The collaboration marks the global demand for verified quality and traceability in food products, with spices at the forefront. This international effort supports consumer protection and fair trade in the spice industry.

About Spices Board of India

The Spices Board of India, under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, is responsible for the development and promotion of Indian spices. It serves as the Secretariat for CCSCH, coordinating scientific and regulatory inputs to ensure global standards reflect international best practices and India’s excellence in spice production.