Geneva/ New Delhi : July 14, 2026
India has strengthened its position in global food safety and quality standards after achieving several key successes at the 49th Session of the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC49) held in Geneva, Switzerland.
The international meeting, jointly supported by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO), approved seven food standards and guidelines that were developed under India’s leadership or co-leadership. Experts say these decisions will help improve food safety, make international trade smoother and create better opportunities for Indian farmers and exporters.
The Indian delegation was led by Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) Chief Executive Officer Rajit Punhani, along with technical experts from FSSAI and the Spices Board.
Among the biggest achievements was the adoption of global standards for dried coriander seeds and fresh curry leaves, both prepared under India’s leadership. The new standards are expected to create common quality benchmarks for international trade in these widely used food products.
The Commission also approved five other international guidelines developed with India’s support. These include standards for vanilla and large cardamom, new guidelines on the safe use and reuse of water in food production, measures to reduce harmful bacteria such as Salmonella and Campylobacter in chicken meat, and updated rules for labelling pre-packaged foods sold in multipacks.
In another major success, the Commission accepted India’s proposal to begin work on a global Codex standard for cashew kernels. India is one of the world’s leading producers and exporters of cashews, and the proposed standard is expected to bring uniform quality requirements, reduce trade-related barriers and improve the competitiveness of Indian cashew exports in global markets.
India also secured an important leadership role by being elected co-chair of an international electronic working group that will study food produced through new technologies and production systems. The group will review existing food safety regulations and identify areas where new international guidance may be required.
Food safety experts believe these achievements will strengthen India’s role in shaping global food regulations while benefiting consumers, farmers, food processing companies and exporters. Common international standards also help countries trade more easily by reducing differences in quality requirements.
Officials said India will continue working with the Codex Alimentarius Commission, FAO, WHO and other member countries to develop science-based food standards that protect consumers and support fair international trade.
