[Federal Register Volume 87, Number 125 (Thursday, June 30, 2022)]
[Notices]
[Pages 39044-39052]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2022-14018]


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Notices
                                                Federal Register
________________________________________________________________________

This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains documents other than rules 
or proposed rules that are applicable to the public. Notices of hearings 
and investigations, committee meetings, agency decisions and rulings, 
delegations of authority, filing of petitions and applications and agency 
statements of organization and functions are examples of documents 
appearing in this section.

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Federal Register / Vol. 87, No. 125 / Thursday, June 30, 2022 / 
Notices

[[Page 39044]]



DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

U.S. Codex Office

[Docket No. USDA-2022-XXXX]


International Standard-Setting Activities

AGENCY: Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs (TFAA), USDA.

ACTION: Notice.

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SUMMARY: This notice informs the public of the sanitary and 
phytosanitary (SPS) standard-setting activities of the Codex 
Alimentarius (Codex), in accordance with section 491 of the Trade 
Agreements Act of 1979, as amended, and the Uruguay Round Agreements 
Act. This notice also provides a list of other standard-setting 
activities of Codex, including commodity standards, guidelines, codes 
of practice, and revised texts. This notice, which covers Codex 
activities during the time periods from June 21, 2021 to May 31, 2022 
and June 1, 2022 to May 31, 2023, seeks comments on standards under 
consideration and recommendations for new standards.

ADDRESSES: The U.S. Codex Office (USCO) invites interested persons to 
submit their comments on this notice. Comments may be submitted by one 
of the following methods:
    <bullet> Federal e-Rulemaking Portal: This website provides the 
ability to type short comments directly into the comment field on this 
web page or attach a file for lengthier comments. Go to http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the on-line instructions at the website for 
submitting comments.
    <bullet> Mail: Send to Docket Clerk, U.S. Department of 
Agriculture, Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Mailstop S4861, Washington, DC 20250-3700.
    <bullet> Hand- or courier-delivered submittals: Deliver to 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Room 4861, Washington, DC 20250-3700.
    Instructions: All items submitted by mail or email are to include 
the Agency name and docket number USDA-2022-XXXX. Comments received in 
response to this docket will be made available for public inspection 
and posted without change, including any personal information to http://www.regulations.gov.
    Please state that your comments refer to Codex. If your comments 
relate to specific Codex committees, please identify the committee(s) 
in your comments and submit a copy of your comments to the delegate for 
that committee.
    Docket: For access to background documents or comments received, 
call (202) 205-7760 to schedule an appointment.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ms. Mary Frances Lowe, United States 
Manager for Codex Alimentarius, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office 
of the Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, U.S. 
Codex Office, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Room 4861, Washington, DC 
20250-3700; Telephone: +1 (202) 205-7760; Email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#413432222e25243901343225206f262e37"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="374244545853524f774244535619505841">[email protected]</span></a>.
    For information pertaining to committees, contact the delegate for 
that committee. A complete list of U.S. delegates and alternate 
delegates is accessible via the internet at: https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/us-codex-program-officials.pdf. Documents 
pertaining to Codex and specific committee agendas are accessible via 
the internet at http://www.fao.org/fao-who-codexalimentarius/meetings/en/. The U.S. Codex Office (USCO) also maintains a website at http://www.usda.gov/codex, a link that also offers an email subscription 
service providing access to information related to Codex. Customers can 
add or delete their subscription themselves and have the option to 
password protect their accounts.

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 Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT). United States 
membership in the WTO was approved and the Uruguay Round Agreements Act 
(Uruguay Round Agreements) was signed into law by the President on 
December 8, 1994, Public Law 103-465, 108 Stat. 4809. The Uruguay Round 
Agreements became effective, with respect to the United States, on 
January 1, 1995. The Uruguay Round Agreements Act amended the Trade 
Agreements Act of 1979. 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'' (19 U.S.C. 2578). The main 
international standard-setting organizations are the Codex Alimentarius 
(Codex), the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE), and the 
International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC). 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 the SPS standard-setting activities of each 
international standard-setting organization. The Secretary of 
Agriculture has delegated to the Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs 
Mission Area the responsibility to inform the public of the SPS 
standard-setting activities of Codex. The Trade and Foreign 
Agricultural Affairs Mission Area has, in turn, assigned the 
responsibility for informing the public of the SPS standard-setting 
activities of Codex to the U.S. Codex Office (USCO).
    Codex was created in 1963 by two United Nations organizations, the 
Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Health 
Organization (WHO). Codex is the principal international organization 
for establishing standards for food. 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 protect the health of consumers, ensure 
fair practices in the food trade, and promote coordination of food 
standards work undertaken by international governmental and 
nongovernmental organizations. In the United States, U.S. Codex 
activities are

[[Page 39045]]

managed and carried out by the United States Department of Agriculture 
(USDA); the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Department of Health 
and Human Services (HHS); the National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration (NOAA), Department of Commerce (DOC); and the 
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
    As the agency responsible for informing the public of the SPS 
standard-setting activities of Codex, the USCO publishes this notice in 
the Federal Register annually. Attachment 1 (Sanitary and Phytosanitary 
Activities of Codex) sets forth the following information:
    1. The SPS standards under consideration or planned for 
consideration; and
    2. For each SPS 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 the standards listed in Attachment 1, please 
contact the U.S. delegate or the U.S. Codex Office.
    This notice also solicits public comment on standards that are 
currently under consideration or planned for consideration and 
recommendations for new standards. The U.S. 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 U.S. delegate will facilitate public participation in the 
United States Government's activities relating to Codex. The U.S. 
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 U.S. delegation 
activities to interested parties. This information will include the 
status of each agenda item; the U.S. Government's position or 
preliminary position on the agenda items; and the time and place of 
planning meetings and debriefing meetings following the Codex committee 
sessions. In addition, the USCO makes much of the same information 
available through its web page at http://www.usda.gov/codex. If you 
would like to access or receive information about specific committees, 
please visit the web page or notify the appropriate U.S. delegate or 
the U.S. Codex Office, Room 4861, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, 
Washington, DC 20250-3700 (<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#641117070b00011c24111700054a030b12"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="235650404c47465b63565047420d444c55">[email protected]</span></a>).
    The information provided in Attachment 1 describes the status of 
Codex standard-setting activities by the Codex committees for the time 
periods from June 21, 2021 to May 31, 2022 and June 1, 2022 to May 31, 
2023. A list of forthcoming Codex sessions may be found at: http://www.codexalimentarius.org/meetings-reports/en/.

Additional Public Notification

    Public awareness of all segments of rulemaking and policy 
development is important. Consequently, the USCO will announce this 
Federal Register publication on-line through the U.S. Codex web page 
located at: https://www.federalregister.gov/agencies/us-codex-office.

    Done at Washington, DC.
Mary Frances Lowe,
U.S. Manager for Codex Alimentarius.

Attachment 1

Sanitary and Phytosanitary Activities of Codex

Codex Alimentarius Commission and Executive Committee

    The Codex Alimentarius Commission (Commission or CAC) convened its 
44th Session (CAC44) virtually from November 8-15 and 17-18, 2021, with 
report adoption taking place on December 14, 2021. The relevant 
document is REP21/CAC. The actions taken by the Commission at CAC44 
(e.g., adoption, revocation, approval of new work, discontinuation of 
work, amendments, etc.) are described below under the respective Codex 
Committees/Task Force.
    The Commission is scheduled to convene for its 45th Session (CAC45) 
on November 21-25, 2022, with report adoption taking place on December 
13, 2022. At its 45th Session, the Commission will consider adopting 
standards recommended by committees at Step 8 or \5/8\ (final adoption) 
and advance the work of committees by adopting draft standards at Step 
5 (for further comment and consideration by the relevant committee). 
The Commission will also consider revocation of Codex texts; proposals 
for new work; discontinuation of work; amendments to Codex standards 
and related texts; and matters arising from the Reports of the 
Commission, the Executive Committee, and subsidiary bodies. Although 
the agenda for the 45th Session is not yet available, it is expected 
that the Commission will also consider Codex budgetary and financial 
matters; FAO/WHO scientific support to Codex (activities, budgetary and 
financial matters); matters arising from FAO/WHO; reports of side 
events; election of the chairperson and vice-chairpersons and members 
of the Executive Committee elected on a geographical basis; designation 
of countries responsible for appointing the chairpersons of Codex 
subsidiary bodies; any other business; and adoption of the report.
    The Executive Committee (CCEXEC) convened its 81st Session 
(CCEXEC81) virtually from October 28 to November 5, 2021. The relevant 
document is REP21/EXEC2. In addition to making recommendations to CAC44 
on the work of Codex Committees/Task Forces, CCEXEC81 discussed the 
impact of the pandemic on the activities of Codex Alimentarius; the 
Codex Strategic Plan 2020-2025; and the application of the Statements 
of Principle concerning the Role of Science in the Codex decision-
making process and the extent to which other factors are taken into 
account.
    Before the CAC45, CCEXEC is scheduled to convene twice virtually, 
due to COVID-19 related issues. The 82nd Session of CCEXEC is scheduled 
to convene June 20-30, 2022 and its 83rd Session is scheduled to 
convene November 14-18, 2022. CCEXEC is composed of the Commission 
chairperson; vice-chairpersons; seven members elected by the Commission 
from each of the following geographic regions: Africa, Asia, Europe, 
Latin America and the Caribbean, Near East, North America, and South-
West Pacific; and regional coordinators from the six regional 
coordinating committees. The United States will participate as an 
advisor to Canada, the member elected on a geographical basis for North 
America.
    At its 82nd Session, the Executive Committee will report on the 
work of the sub-committee on the application of the Statements of 
Principle concerning the role of science, and the sub-committee on new 
food sources and production systems. The Executive Committee will also 
consider the following agenda items: model for future Codex work, 
applications from international non-governmental organizations for 
observer status in Codex, review of international non-governmental 
organizations with observer status in Codex, Codex Strategic Plan 2020-
2025, and the 60th anniversary of the Codex Alimentarius Commission: 
1963-2023. The Executive

[[Page 39046]]

Committee agenda for the 83rd Session is not yet available.
    Responsible Agency: USDA/TFAA/USCO.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Contaminants in Foods

    The Codex Committee on Contaminants in Foods (CCCF) establishes or 
endorses permitted maximum levels (MLs)or guideline levels (GLs) for 
contaminants and naturally occurring toxicants in food and feed; 
prepares priority lists of contaminants and naturally occurring 
toxicants for risk assessment by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on 
Food Additives (JECFA); considers and elaborates methods of analysis 
and sampling for the determination of contaminants and naturally 
occurring toxicants in food and feed; considers and elaborates 
standards or codes of practice for related subjects; and considers 
other matters assigned to it by the Commission in relation to 
contaminants and naturally occurring toxicants in food and feed.
    The Committee had the following items which were considered by the 
44th Session of the Codex Alimentarius Commission in November 2021.
    Adopted at Step 8 or Step \5/8\ (final adoption):
    <bullet> MLs for cadmium in chocolates containing or declaring <30% 
cocoa solid on a dry matter basis
    <bullet> MLs for cadmium in chocolates containing or declaring 
>=30% to <50% total cocoa solid on a dry matter basis
    <bullet> Revision of the Code of Practice for the Prevention and 
Reduction of Lead Contamination in Foods (CXS 56-2004)
    <bullet> Amendment to extend the MLs for lead in fruit juices and 
grape juice in the General Standard for Contaminants in Food and Feed 
(CXS 193-1995) to cover infants and young children
    Approved as new work:
    <bullet> MLs for methylmercury in orange roughy and pink cusk eel
    <bullet> Code of Practice for the prevention and reduction of 
mycotoxin contamination in cassava and cassava-based products
    The Committee convened its 15th Session virtually from May 9-13, 
2022, with report adoption taking place on May 24, 2022. The relevant 
document is REP22/CF.
    The Committee has the following items that will be considered by 
the 45th Session of the Commission.
    To be considered for final adoption at Step 8 and Step 5/8:
    <bullet> MLs for cadmium in cocoa powder (100% total cocoa solids 
on a dry matter basis)
    <bullet> Code of practice for the prevention and reduction of 
cadmium contamination in cocoa beans
    <bullet> MLs for methylmercury in certain fish species and 
associated sampling plan (orange roughy and pink cusk eel) MLs for lead 
in certain food categories (cereal-based products for infants and young 
children, white sugar, corn and maple syrups, honey, and sugar-based 
candies)
    <bullet> MLs for total aflatoxins in maize grain, destined for 
further processing; flour meal, semolina and flakes derived from maize; 
husked rice; polished rice; sorghum grain, destined for further 
processing; cereal-based food for infants and young children (excluding 
foods for food aid programs); and cereal-based food for older infants 
and young children for food aid programs
    The 16th Session of the CCCF (CCCF16) is scheduled to convene April 
17-21, 2023. The CCCF16 agenda is currently unavailable, and we are 
unable to determine if CCCF16 will recommend adoptions or approvals at 
the 46th Session of The Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC46).
    The Committee is expected to continue working on:
    <bullet> MLs for lead in remaining certain food categories (ready-
to-eat meals for infants and young children, culinary herbs, dried 
spices, brown and raw sugars)
    <bullet> Sampling plans for methylmercury in certain fish species 
and associated sampling plan (orange roughy and pink cusk eel)
    <bullet> MLs for total aflatoxins in ready-to-eat peanuts and 
associated sampling plan
    <bullet> MLs for total aflatoxins and ochratoxin A in nutmeg, dried 
chili and paprika, ginger, pepper, and turmeric and associated sampling 
plans
    <bullet> Code of practice for prevention and reduction of mycotoxin 
contamination in cassava and cassava-based products
    <bullet> Forward work plan for CCCF, including:
    [cir] Review of staple food-contaminant combinations for future 
work of CCCF
    <bullet> Review of Codex standards for contaminants
    <bullet> Follow-up work to the outcomes of JECFA evaluations
    <bullet> Priority list of contaminants for evaluation by JECFA
    Responsible Agencies: HHS/FDA; USDA/Food Safety and Inspection 
Service (FSIS).
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Fats and Oils

    The Codex Committee on Fats and Oils (CCFO) is responsible for 
elaborating worldwide standards for fats and oils of animal, vegetable, 
and marine origin, including margarine and olive oil.
    The 27th Session of the CCFO met virtually on October 18-22, 2021, 
with report adoption taking place on October 26, 2021. The relevant 
document is REP22/FO.
    The Committee has the following items that will be considered by 
the 45th Session of the Commission.
    To be considered for final adoption at Step 5/8:
    <bullet> Proposed draft revision to the Standard for Named 
Vegetable Oils (CXS 210-1999): Essential composition of Sunflower seed 
oils
    To be considered for approval as new work:
    <bullet> Amendment/revision to the Standard for Named Vegetable 
Oils (CXS 210-1999) to include Camellia seed oil; Sacha inchi oil; High 
oleic acid soya bean oil
    <bullet> Amendment/revision to the Standard for Fish Oils (CXS 329-
2017) to include Calanus oil
    The Committee is expected to continue working on:
    <bullet> Proposed draft revision to the Standard for Named 
Vegetable Oils (CXS 210-1999): avocado oil
    <bullet> Editorial amendments/changes to the Code of Practice for 
the Storage and Transport of Edible Fats and Oils in Bulk (CXC 36-
1987): Appendix 2
    <bullet> Mechanisms for revising the Standard for Milk Fat Products 
(CXS 280-1973)
    Responsible Agencies: HHS/FDA/Center for Food Safety and Applied 
Nutrition (CFSAN); USDA/Agricultural Research Service (ARS).
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Fish and Fishery Products

    The Committee on Fish and Fishery Products (CCFFP) is responsible 
for elaborating standards for fresh, frozen, and otherwise processed 
fish, crustaceans, and mollusks. The 35th session of CCFFP is working 
by correspondence and the Committee is expected to complete their work 
by October 1, 2022.
    The Committee is working by correspondence on:
    <bullet> The Standard for Canned Sardines and Sardine-Type Products 
(CXS 94-1981) to consider inclusion of the fish species S. lemuru (Bali 
Sardinella) in the list of Sardinella species under section 2.1.
    Responsible Agencies: HHS/FDA; DOC/NOAA/National Marine Fisheries 
Service (NMFS).
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

[[Page 39047]]

Codex Committee on Food Additives

    The Codex Committee on Food Additives (CCFA) establishes or 
endorses acceptable MLs for individual food additives; prepares a 
priority list of food additives for risk assessment by the JECFA; 
assigns functional classes to individual food additives; recommends 
specifications of identity and purity for food additives for adoption 
by the Codex Alimentarius Commission; considers methods of analysis for 
the determination of additives in food; and considers and elaborates 
standards or codes of practice for related subjects such as the 
labeling of food additives when sold as such.
    The Committee convened its 52nd Session virtually from September 1-
7, 2021, with report adoption taking place on September 10, 2021. The 
relevant document is REP21/FA.
    The Committee had the following items which were considered by the 
44th Session of the Codex Alimentarius Commission in November 2021.
    Adopted at Step 8 (final adoption):
<bullet> Specifications for the Identity and Purity of Food Additives
<bullet> Revisions to adopted provisions of the General Standard for 
Food Additives (GSFA) (CXS 192-1995)
<bullet> Revision of the Class Names and the International Numbering 
System for Food Additives (CXG 36-1989)
<bullet> Changes related to the group header STEVIOL GLYCOSIDES in the 
GSFA (CXS 192-1995)
<bullet> Revised provisions of the GSFA in relation to the amendments 
to title and food category number for CXS 283-1978 in Annex C of the 
GSFA (CXS 192-1995)
<bullet> Revised food-additive provisions of the GSFA in relation to 
the partial alignment of CXS 249-2006, CXS 273-1968, CXS 275-1973 and 
CXS 288-1978 to include tamarind seed polysaccharide (INS 437)
<bullet> Revised food-additive provisions of the GSFA in relation to 
the linked entry for Food Category (FC) 12.5 in the References to 
Commodity Standards for GSFA Table 3 Additives in the Annex to Table 3
<bullet> Revised provisions of the GSFA for sweeteners in different 
food categories (CXS 192-1995)
<bullet> Revised food-additive sections of nine standards for milk and 
milk products, i.e., Group Standards for Cheeses in Brine (CXS 208-
1999); Unripened Cheese including Fresh Cheese (CXS 221-2001); 
Standards for a Blend of Evaporated Skimmed Milk and Vegetable Fat (CXS 
250-2006); a Blend of Skimmed Milk and Vegetable Fat in Powdered Form 
(CXS 251-2006); a Blend of Sweetened Condensed Skimmed Milk and 
Vegetable Fat (CXS 252-2006); Standards for Cottage Cheese (CXS 273-
1968); Cream Cheese (CXS 275-1973); Extra Hard Grating Cheese (CXS 278-
1978); and General Standard for Cheese (CXS 283-1978)
<bullet> Revised food-additive sections of six standards for fats and 
oils, i.e., Standards for Edible Fats and Oils not covered by 
Individual Standards (CXS 19-1981); Olive Oils and Olive Pomace Oils 
(CXS 33-1981); Named vegetable oils (CXS 210-1999); Named Animal Fats 
(CXS 211-1999); Fat Spreads and Blended Spreads (CXS 256-2007); and 
Fish Oils (CXS 329-2017)
<bullet> Revised food-additive sections of three standards for spices 
and culinary herbs, i.e., Standards for Black, White and Green Peppers 
(CXS 326-2017); Cumin (CXS 327-2017); and Dried Thyme (CXS 328-2017)
<bullet> Amendments to Standards for Bouillons and Consomm[eacute]s 
(CXS 117-1981) and Wheat Flour (CXS 152-1985) due to alignment of 
methylate copolymer, basic (INS 1205)
<bullet> Inclusion of xanthan gum (INS 415) and pectins (INS 440) in FC 
13.1.3 (``Formulae for special medical purposes for infants'') of the 
GSFA (CXS 192-1995)

    The 53rd Session of the CCFA (CCFA53) is scheduled to convene March 
27-31, 2023. The CCFA53 agenda is currently unavailable, and we are 
unable to determine if CCFA53 will recommend adoptions or approvals at 
CAC46.
    The Committee is expected to continue working on:

<bullet> New proposed draft food additive provisions of the GSFA
<bullet> Technological justification for the use of mono and 
diglycerides of fatty acids (INS 471) as an antifoaming agent in 
products for deep frying conforming to the Standard for Named Vegetable 
Oils (CXS 210-1999) excluding virgin and cold-pressed oils
<bullet> Guideline on avoiding future divergence of food additive 
provisions in the GSFA with commodity standards
<bullet> Priority list of substances proposed for evaluation by JECFA
<bullet> Discussion paper on the food additive provision for the use of 
trisodium citrate in FC 01.1.1 ``Fluid milk (plain)''
<bullet> An administrative review of all adopted food additives 
provisions in the GSFA for additives with sweetener function but not 
associated with Note 161
<bullet> Discussion paper on mapping Food Categories of the GSFA to the 
FoodEx2 database
<bullet> Discussion paper on the use of certain food additives in wine 
production

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

Codex Committee on Food Hygiene

    The Codex Committee on Food Hygiene (CCFH) is responsible for 
developing basic provisions on food hygiene, applicable to all food; 
considering and amending or endorsing provisions on food hygiene 
contained in Codex commodity standards and Codex codes of practice 
developed by other committees; considering specific food hygiene 
problems assigned to it by the Commission; suggesting and prioritizing 
areas where there is a need for microbiological risk assessment at the 
international level and developing questions to be addressed by the 
risk assessors; and considering microbiological risk management matters 
in relation to food hygiene and in relation to the FAO/WHO risk 
assessments.
    The 52nd Session of the Committee (CCFH52) met virtually from 
February 28-March 4, 2022, with report adoption taking place on March 
9, 2022. The relevant document is REP 22/FH.
    The Committee has the following items that will be considered at 
the 45th Session of the Commission.
    To be considered for final adoption at Step 8 and Step 5/8:

<bullet> Draft Guidelines for the Management of Biological Foodborne 
Outbreaks
<bullet> Proposed draft Decision Tree as an annex to the General 
Principles of Food Hygiene (CXC 1-1969)

    The 53rd Session of the CCFH (CCFH53) is scheduled to convene from 
November 27-December 3, 2022. The CCFH53 agenda is currently 
unavailable, and we are unable to determine if CCFH53 will recommend 
adoptions or approvals at CAC46.
    The Committee is expected to continue working on:

<bullet> Proposed Draft Guidelines for the Control of Shiga Toxin-
Producing Escherichia coli (STEC) in Raw Beef, Raw Milk and Raw Milk 
Cheeses, Fresh Leafy Vegetables, and Sprouts
<bullet> Proposed Draft Guidelines for the Safe Use and Reuse of Water 
in Food Production
<bullet> Discussion paper on revision of the Guidelines on the 
Application of General Principles of Food Hygiene to the Control of 
Pathogenic Vibrio Species in Seafood (CXG 73-2010)
<bullet> Discussion paper on revision of the Guidelines on the 
Application of

[[Page 39048]]

General Principles of Food Hygiene to the Control of Viruses in Food 
(CXG 79-2012)
<bullet> New work proposals/forward workplan

    Responsible Agencies: HHS/FDA/CFSAN; USDA/FSIS.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Food Import and Export Inspection and Certification 
Systems

    The Codex Committee on Food Import and Export Inspection and 
Certification Systems (CCFICS) is responsible for developing principles 
and guidelines for food import and export inspection and certification 
systems, with a view to harmonizing methods and procedures that protect 
the health of consumers, ensure fair trading practices, and facilitate 
international trade in foodstuffs; developing principles and guidelines 
for the application of measures by the competent authorities of 
exporting and importing countries to provide assurance, where 
necessary, that foodstuffs comply with requirements, especially 
statutory health requirements; developing guidelines for the 
utilization, as and when appropriate, of quality assurance systems to 
ensure that foodstuffs conform with requirements and promote the 
recognition of these systems in facilitating trade in food products 
under bilateral/multilateral arrangements by countries; developing 
guidelines and criteria with respect to format, declarations, and 
language of such official certificates as countries may require with a 
view towards international harmonization; making recommendations for 
information exchange in relation to food import/export control; 
consulting as necessary with other international groups working on 
matters related to food inspection and certification systems; and 
considering other matters assigned to it by the Commission in relation 
to food inspection and certification systems.
    The Committee had the following items which were considered by the 
44th Session of the Codex Alimentarius Commission in November 2021.
    Adopted at Step 8 or Step 5/8 (final adoption):
    <bullet> Principles and Guidelines for the Assessment and Use of 
Voluntary Third-Party Assurance (vTPA) Programmes.
    <bullet> Guidance on Paperless Use of Electronic Certificates 
(Revised Guidelines for Design, Production, Issuance and Use of Generic 
Official Certificates (CXG 38-2001)).
    Approved as new work:

<bullet> Development of guidance on the prevention and control of food 
fraud

    The 26th Session of the CCFICS is scheduled to convene from May 1-
5, 2023. The CCFICS26 agenda is currently unavailable, and we are 
unable to determine if CCFICS26 will recommend adoptions or approvals 
at CAC46.
    The Committee is expected to continue working on:

<bullet> Development of guidance on the prevention and control of food 
fraud
<bullet> Proposed draft guidelines on recognition and maintenance of 
equivalence of National Food Control Systems (NFCS)
<bullet> Proposed draft consolidated Codex guidelines related to 
equivalence
<bullet> Review and update the list of emerging global issues
<bullet> Discussion paper on ``Use of remote audit and verification in 
regulatory frameworks''
<bullet> Discussion paper on review and update of the Principles for 
Traceability/Product Tracing as a Tool Within a Food Inspection and 
Certification System (CXG 60-2006)

    Responsible Agencies: USDA/FSIS; HHS/FDA/CFSAN.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Food Labelling

    The Codex Committee on Food Labelling (CCFL) drafts provisions on 
labeling applicable to all foods; considers, amends, and endorses draft 
specific provisions on labeling prepared by the Codex Committees 
drafting standards, codes of practice, and guidelines; and studies 
specific labeling problems assigned to it by the Codex Alimentarius 
Commission. The Committee also studies problems associated with the 
advertisement of food with particular reference to claims and 
misleading descriptions.
    The 46th Session of the Committee (CCFL46) met virtually from 
September 27-October 1, 2021, with report adoption taking place on 
October 7, 2021. The relevant document is REP 21/FL.
    The Committee had the following items which were considered by the 
44th Session of the Codex Alimentarius Commission in November 2021.
    Adopted at Step 8 or Step 5/8 (final adoption):

<bullet> Draft General Standard for the Labelling of Non-Retail 
Containers (CXS 346-2021)
<bullet> Proposed Draft Guidelines on Front of Pack Nutrition Labelling 
(Annex 2 to the Codex Guidelines on Nutrition Labelling (CXG 2-1985))

    Approved as new work:

<bullet> Discussion paper on guidance on innovation--use of technology 
in food labeling

    The 47th Session of the CCFL (CCFL47) is scheduled to convene from 
May 15-19, 2023. The CCFL47 agenda is currently unavailable, and we are 
unable to determine if CCFL47 will recommend adoptions or approvals at 
CAC46.
    The Committee is expected to continue working on:

<bullet> Proposed draft Guidelines on Internet Sales/E-Commerce
<bullet> Proposed draft revision to the Codex General Standard for the 
Labelling of Prepackaged Foods (CXS 1-1985): Provisions relevant to 
allergen labeling and proposed draft guidance on precautionary allergen 
labeling
<bullet> Discussion paper on guidance on innovation--use of technology 
in food labeling

    Responsible Agencies: HHS/FDA/CFSAN; USDA/FSIS.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Fresh Fruits and Vegetables

    The Codex Committee on Fresh Fruits and Vegetables (CCFFV) is 
responsible for elaborating worldwide standards and codes of practice, 
as may be appropriate, for fresh fruits and vegetables, consulting as 
necessary, with other international organizations in the standards 
development process to avoid duplication.
    The Committee convened its 22nd Session virtually from April 25-29, 
2022, with report adoption taking place on May 4, 2022. The relevant 
document is REP22/FFV.
    The Committee has the following items that will be considered by 
the 45th Session of the Commission.
    To be considered for final adoption at Step 5/8:

<bullet> Proposed draft standard for onions and shallots
<bullet> Proposed draft standard for berry fruits
<bullet> Proposed draft standard for fresh dates

    To be considered for approval as new work:

<bullet> New standard for Castillo lulo
<bullet> New standard for fresh curry leaves
<bullet> Amendment to existing standard for bananas

    In addition, the Committee agreed to the following item for 
internal use by the Committee:
<bullet> Glossary of terms used in the layout for Codex standards for 
fresh fruits and vegetables

    The Committee is expected to continue working on:

<bullet> New work proposals


[[Page 39049]]


    Responsible Agencies: USDA/Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS), 
HHS/FDA/CFSAN.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on General Principles

    The Codex Committee on General Principles (CCGP) is responsible for 
procedural and general matters referred to it by the Codex Alimentarius 
Commission, including: (a) The review or endorsement of procedural 
provisions/texts forwarded by other subsidiary bodies for inclusion in 
the Procedural Manual of the Codex Alimentarius Commission; and (b) The 
consideration and recommendation of other amendments to the Procedural 
Manual.
    The Committee had the following item which was adopted by the 44th 
Session of the Codex Alimentarius Commission in November 2021.
    <bullet> Criteria and Procedural Guidelines for Codex Committees 
and ad hoc Intergovernmental Task Forces Working by Correspondence.
    The 33rd Session of the CCGP (CCGP33) is scheduled for October 2-6, 
2023, in Bordeaux, France. The Committee is expected to continue 
discussions on:

<bullet> Revisions/amendments to Codex texts
<bullet> Format and structure of the Codex Procedural Manual

    Responsible Agencies: A member of the Steering Committee heads the 
delegation to meetings of the General Principles Committee.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Methods of Analysis and Sampling

    The Codex Committee on Methods of Analysis and Sampling (CCMAS) 
defines the criteria appropriate to Codex Methods of Analysis and 
Sampling; serves as a coordinating body for Codex with other 
international groups working on methods of analysis and sampling and 
quality assurance systems for laboratories; specifies, on the basis of 
final recommendations submitted to it by the bodies referred to above, 
reference methods of analysis and sampling appropriate to Codex 
standards which are generally applicable to a number of foods; 
considers, amends if necessary, and endorses as appropriate, methods of 
analysis and sampling proposed by Codex (commodity) committees, except 
for those methods of analysis and sampling for residues of pesticides 
or veterinary drugs in food, the assessment of microbiological quality 
and safety in food, and the assessment of specifications for food 
additives; elaborates sampling plans and procedures, as may be 
required; considers specific sampling and analysis problems submitted 
to it by the Commission or any of its committees; and defines 
procedures, protocols, guidelines or related texts for the assessment 
of food laboratory proficiency, as well as quality assurance systems 
for laboratories.
    The Committee had the following items which were considered by the 
44th Session of the Codex Alimentarius Commission in November 2021.
    Adopted at Step 8 (final adoption):

<bullet> Revised Guidelines on Measurement Uncertainty (CXG 54-2004)

    Revoked:

<bullet> Methods of analysis/performance criteria for certain 
provisions in Recommended Methods of Analysis and Sampling (CXS 234-
1999) as listed in REP21/MAS Appendix II, Part 2

    In addition, the Commission adopted:

<bullet> Methods of analysis and performance criteria amending certain 
provisions in Recommended Methods of Analysis and Sampling (CXS 234-
1999)
<bullet> Editorial amendment to the provision in Section 3.3 of the 
Standard for Edible Casein Products (CXS 290-1995)
<bullet> Methods of analysis for provisions for fats and oils (part 4.3 
of REP21/MAS), which had been considered and agreed by the 27th Session 
of Codex Committee on Fats and Oils (CCFO27).

    The 42nd Session of the CCMAS (CCMAS42) is scheduled to convene 
June 12-16, 2023. The CCMAS42 agenda is currently unavailable, and we 
are unable to determine if CCMAS42 will recommend adoptions or 
approvals at CAC46.
    The Committee is expected to continue working on:

<bullet> Revised General Guidelines on Sampling (CXG 50-2004)
<bullet> Amendments to certain provisions in Recommended Methods of 
Analysis and Sampling (CXS 234-1999)

    Responsible Agencies: HHS/FDA/CFSAN; 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 
(CCNFSDU) is responsible for studying nutrition issues referred to it 
by the Codex Alimentarius Commission. The Committee also drafts general 
provisions, as appropriate, on nutritional aspects of all foods and 
develops standards, guidelines, or related texts for foods for special 
dietary uses in cooperation with other committees where necessary; 
considers, amends if necessary, and endorses provisions on nutritional 
aspects proposed for inclusion in Codex standards, guidelines, and 
related texts.
    The Committee convened its 42nd Session virtually from November 19-
25, 2021, with report adoption taking place on December 1, 2021. The 
relevant document is REP22/NFSDU.
    The Committee has the following item that will be considered by the 
45th Session of the Commission.
    To be considered for final adoption at Step 8:

<bullet> Guidelines for Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Foods (RUTF)

    The 43rd Session of the CCNFSDU (CCNFSDU43) is scheduled to convene 
March 6-10, 2023. The CCNFSDU43 agenda is currently unavailable, and we 
are unable to determine if CCNFSDU43 will recommend adoptions or 
approvals at CAC46.
    The Committee is expected to continue working on:

<bullet> Review of the Standard for Follow-up Formula: Section A & 
Section B: scope, description, essential composition and labelling; and 
remaining sections; (CXS 156-1987)
<bullet> General Principles for the establishment of Nutrient Reference 
Values--Requirements (NRVs-R) for persons aged 6-36 months

    Responsible Agencies: HHS/FDA/CFSAN; USDA/ARS.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Pesticide Residues

    The Codex Committee on Pesticide Residues (CCPR) is responsible for 
establishing maximum residue limits (MRLs) for pesticide residues in 
specific food items or in groups of food; establishing MRLs for 
pesticide residues in certain animal feeding stuffs moving in 
international trade where this is justified for reasons of protection 
of human health; preparing priority lists of pesticides for evaluation 
by the Joint FAO/WHO Meeting on Pesticide Residues (JMPR); considering 
methods of sampling and analysis for the determination of pesticide 
residues in food and feed; considering other matters in relation to the 
safety of food and feed containing pesticide residues; and establishing 
maximum limits for environmental and industrial contaminants showing 
chemical or other similarity to pesticides in specific food items or 
groups of food.
    The 52nd Session of the Committee (CCPR52) met virtually July 26-
August

[[Page 39050]]

3, 2021. The relevant document is REP 21/PR.
    The Committee had the following items which were considered by the 
44th Session of the Codex Alimentarius Commission in November 2021.
    Adopted at Step 8 and 5/8 (final adoption):

<bullet> 402 MRLs for different pesticide residues
<bullet> Revisions of the Classification: Class C: Primary Feed 
Commodities. Type 11: Primary Feed Commodities of Plant Origin, All 
Groups
<bullet> Revisions of the Classification: Class D: Processed Food 
Commodities of Plant Origin. All Types and Group
<bullet> Revisions of the Classification: Tables 7 and 8 of Principles 
and Guidelines for the Selection of Representative Commodities for the 
extrapolation of MRLs for Pesticides to Commodity Group (CXG 84-2012)

    The Commission also discontinued work, approved new work, and 
revoked existing MRLs as recommended by CCPR52.
    The 53rd Session of the CCPR (CCPR53) is scheduled to convene 
virtually from July 4-8, 2022, with report adoption taking place on 
July 13, 2022. We are unable to determine if CCPR53 will recommend 
adoptions or approvals at CAC45.
    The Committee is expected to continue working on:

<bullet> Revision of the Classification of Food and Feed (CXA 4-1989) 
for selected commodity groups:
    [cir] Revision of Class C, animal feed commodities, taking into 
account silage, fodder, and a separate group for grasses
    [cir] Revision of Class D, processed food commodities
    [cir] Transferring commodities from Class D to Class C
    [cir] Creating tables with representative crops for Class C and D
    [cir] Edible animal tissues (including edible offal), in 
collaboration with the Codex Committee on Residues of Veterinary Drugs 
in Foods (CCRVDF) EWG on edible animal tissues
<bullet> Harmonization of mammalian meat MRLs between CCPR and CCRVDF
<bullet> Guidelines for compounds of low public health concern that may 
be exempted from the establishment of Maximum Residue Limits for 
Pesticides (CXLs) or do not give rise to residues
<bullet> Establishment of a Codex database of national registration of 
pesticides
<bullet> Establishment of JMPR schedules and priority lists for 
evaluations of pesticides
<bullet> Guidelines for compounds of low public health concern that 
could be exempted from the establishment of Codex MRLs for pesticides
<bullet> Management of unsupported compounds in the CCPR schedules and 
priority lists of pesticides for evaluation by the JMPR
<bullet> Review of the Guidelines on the use of mass spectrometry for 
the identification, confirmation, and quantitative determination of 
pesticide residues (CXG 56-2005) and the Guidelines on performance 
criteria for methods of analysis for the determination of pesticide 
residues in food and feed (CXG 90-2017)
<bullet> Opportunities and challenges for JMPR participation in 
international review of a new compound

    Responsible Agencies: EPA/Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution 
Prevention (OCSPP)/Office of Pesticide Programs (OPP); USDA/FSIS.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Residues of Veterinary Drugs in Foods

    The Codex Committee on Residues of Veterinary Drugs in Foods 
(CCRVDF) determines priorities for the consideration of residues of 
veterinary drugs in foods and recommends MRLs for veterinary drugs. The 
Committee also develops codes of practice, as may be required, and 
considers methods of sampling and analysis for the determination of 
veterinary drug residues in food.
    The Committee convened its 25th Session virtually from July 12-16, 
2021, with report adoption taking place on July 20, 2021. The relevant 
document is REP21/RVDF.
    The Committee had the following items which were considered by the 
44th Session of the Codex Alimentarius Commission in November 2021.
    Adopted at Step 8 and 5/8 (final adoption):

<bullet> MRL for Flumethrin (honey)
<bullet> MRL for Diflubenzuron (salmon--muscle plus skin in natural 
proportion)
<bullet> MRL for Halquinol (swine--muscle, skin plus fat, liver and 
kidney
<bullet> Amendment to the Glossary of Terms and Definitions (Residues 
of Veterinary Drugs in Foods) (CXA 5-1993): Definition of edible offal

    The 26th Session of the CCRVDF (CCRVDF26) is scheduled to convene 
February 13-17, 2023. The CCRVDF26 agenda is currently unavailable, and 
we are unable to determine if CCRVDF26 will recommend adoptions or 
approvals at CAC46.
    The Committee is expected to continue working on:

<bullet> MRLs for ivermectin (sheep, goats, pigs-fat, kidney, liver, 
and muscle)
<bullet> Discussion paper on extrapolation of MRLs to one or more 
species (including a pilot on extrapolation of MRLs identified in Part 
D of the Priority List--REP18/RVDF, App. VI)
<bullet> Discussion paper on the development of a harmonized definition 
for edible tissues of animal origin (including edible offal) (in 
coordination with CCPR)
<bullet> Discussion paper on advantages and disadvantages of a parallel 
approach to compound evaluation
<bullet> Database on countries' needs for MRLs
<bullet> Priority List of veterinary drugs requiring evaluation or re-
evaluation by JECFA

    Responsible Agencies: HHS/FDA/Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM); 
USDA/FSIS.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Spices and Culinary Herbs

    The Codex Committee on Spices and Culinary Herbs (CCSCH) is 
responsible for elaborating worldwide standards for spices and culinary 
herbs in their dried and dehydrated state in whole, ground, and cracked 
or crushed form. CCSCH also consults, as necessary, with other 
international organizations in the standards development process to 
avoid duplication.
    The Committee had the following items which were considered by the 
44th Session of the Codex Alimentarius Commission in November 2021.
    Adopted at Step 8 (final adoption):

<bullet> Standard for dried oregano
<bullet> Standard for dried roots, rhizomes and bulbs-dried or 
dehydrated ginger with the food additive provisions as amended and 
endorsed by the Codex Committee on Food Additives (CCFA)
<bullet> Standard for dried floral parts--dried cloves
<bullet> Standard for dried leaves--dried basil

    Approved as new work:

<bullet> Standard for small cardamom
<bullet> Standard for turmeric
<bullet> Group standard for spices in the form of dried fruits and 
berries (all spice, juniper berry, star anise and vanilla)

    The 6th Session of the CCSCH is scheduled to convene virtually from 
September 26-October 10, 2022. The relevant document is CX/SCH 22/6/1. 
We are unable to determine if CCSCH will recommend adoptions or 
approvals at CAC45.
    The Committee is expected to continue working on:

<bullet> Draft Standard for Saffron
<bullet> Draft Standard for Dried Seeds--Nutmeg

[[Page 39051]]

<bullet> Proposed Draft Standard for Dried and/or Dehydrated Chilli 
Peppers and Paprika
<bullet> Proposed Draft Standard for Small Cardamom
<bullet> Proposed Draft Standard for Spices in Dried Fruits and Berries 
(allspices, juniper berry, star anise, and vanilla)
<bullet> Proposed Draft Standard for Tumeric
<bullet> Consideration of the Proposals for New Work
<bullet> Update to the Template for SCH Standards

    Responsible Agencies: USDA/AMS; HHS/FDA/CFSAN.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Ad hoc Codex Intergovernmental Task Force on Antimicrobial Resistance

    The Ad hoc Codex Intergovernmental Task Force on Antimicrobial 
Resistance (TFAMR) was responsible for reviewing and revising, as 
appropriate, the Code of Practice to Minimize and Contain Antimicrobial 
Resistance (CAC/RCP 61-2005) to address the entire food chain, in line 
with the mandate of Codex; and considering the development of Guidance 
on Integrated Surveillance of Antimicrobial Resistance, taking into 
account the guidance developed by the WHO Advisory Group on Integrated 
Surveillance of Antimicrobial Resistance (AGISAR) and relevant World 
Organization for Animal Health (OIE) documents. The objective of the 
Task Force was to develop science-based guidance on the management of 
foodborne antimicrobial resistance, taking full account of the WHO 
Global Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance, in particular 
Objectives 3 and 4, the work and standards of relevant international 
organizations, such as FAO, WHO, and OIE, and the One-Health approach, 
to ensure members have the necessary guidance to enable coherent 
management of antimicrobial resistance along the food chain. The Task 
Force was expected to complete this work within three (or a maximum of 
four) sessions.
    The 8th Session of the Task Force met virtually from October 4-16, 
2021. The relevant document is REP 21/AMR.
    The Committee had the following items which were considered by the 
44th Session of the Codex Alimentarius Commission in November 2021.
    Adopted at Step 8 and 5/8 (final adoption):

<bullet> Code of Practice to Minimize and Contain Antimicrobial 
Resistance (CXC 61-2005)
<bullet> Guidelines on integrated surveillance of antimicrobial 
resistance (CXG 94-2021)

    TFAMR completed its work and fulfilled the mandate given by the 
CAC, therefore no further meetings are required, and the Task Force was 
dissolved at the 44th Session of the Commission.
    Responsible Agencies: HHS/FDA; USDA/Office of the Chief Scientist.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Adjourned Codex Commodity Committees

    Several Codex Alimentarius Commodity Committees have adjourned sine 
die. The following Committees fall into this category:

Cereals, Pulses and Legumes--Adjourned Sine Die 2020

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

Cocoa Products and Chocolate--Adjourned Sine Die 2001

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

Meat Hygiene--Adjourned Sine Die 2003

    Responsible Agency: USDA/FSIS.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Milk and Milk Products--Adjourned Sine Die 2017

    Responsible Agency: USDA/AMS; HHS/FDA/CFSAN.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Natural Mineral Waters--Adjourned Sine Die 2008

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

Processed Fruits and Vegetables--Adjourned Sine Die 2020

    Responsible Agency: USDA/AMS; HHS/FDA/CFSAN.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Sugars--Adjourned Sine Die 2019

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

Vegetable Proteins--Adjourned Sine Die 1989

    Responsible Agency: USDA/ARS.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

FAO/WHO Regional Coordinating Committees

    The FAO/WHO Regional Coordinating Committees define the problems 
and needs of the regions concerning food standards and food control; 
promote within the Committee contacts for the mutual exchange of 
information on proposed regulatory initiatives and problems arising 
from food control and stimulate the strengthening of food control 
infrastructures; recommend to the Commission the development of 
worldwide standards for products of interest to the region, including 
products considered by the Committees to have an international market 
potential in the future; develop regional standards for food products 
moving exclusively or almost exclusively in intra-regional trade; draw 
the attention of the Commission to any aspects of the Commission's work 
of particular significance to the region; promote coordination of all 
regional food standards work undertaken by international governmental 
and non-governmental organizations within each region; exercise a 
general coordinating role for the region and such other functions as 
may be entrusted to them by the Commission; and promote the use of 
Codex standards and related texts by members.
    There are six regional coordinating committees:

<bullet> Coordinating Committee for Africa
<bullet> Coordinating Committee for Asia
<bullet> Coordinating Committee for Europe
<bullet> Coordinating Committee for Latin America and the Caribbean
<bullet> Coordinating Committee for the Near East
<bullet> Coordinating Committee for North America and the South West 
Pacific

Coordinating Committee for Africa

    The Coordinating Committee for Africa (CCAFRICA) did not meet in 
2021. The 24th Session of CCAFRICA is scheduled to convene virtually 
from September 5-9, 2022, with report adoption taking place on 
September 13, 2022. The agenda is not yet available, and it is not 
possible to determine whether any texts will be forwarded for 
consideration by CAC45.
    Responsible Party: USDA/TFAA/USCO.
    U.S. Participation: Yes (as an observer).

Coordinating Committee for Asia

    The Coordinating Committee for Asia (CCASIA) did not meet in 2021. 
The 22nd Session of CCASIA is scheduled to convene virtually from 
October 12-18, 2022, with report adoption on October 21. The agenda is 
not yet available, and it is not possible to determine whether any 
texts will be forwarded for consideration by CAC45.
    Responsible Party: USDA/TFAA/USCO.
    U.S. Participation: Yes (as an observer).

[[Page 39052]]

Coordinating Committee for Europe

    The Coordinating Committee for Europe (CCEURO) convened its 32nd 
Session virtually from May 16-18, 2022, with report adoption taking 
place on May 20, 2022.
    The Coordinating Committee discussed the following agenda items:
<bullet> Matters arising from the Codex Alimentarius Commission and 
Codex subsidiary bodies
<bullet> Food safety and quality in the region including current and 
emerging issues--country updates
<bullet> Updates on FAO and WHO work of regional interest
<bullet> Codex work relevant to the region
<bullet> Implementation of the Codex Strategic Plan 2020-2025
<bullet> Nomination of the Regional Coordinator

    Responsible Party: USDA/TFAA/USCO.
    U.S. Participation: Yes (as an observer).

Coordinating Committee for Latin America and the Caribbean

    The Coordinating Committee for Latin America and the Caribbean 
(CCLAC) did not meet in 2021. The 22nd Session of CCLAC is scheduled to 
convene virtually October 24-28, 2022. The agenda is not yet available, 
and it is not possible to determine whether any texts will be forwarded 
for consideration by CAC45.
    Responsible Party: USDA/TFAA/USCO.
    U.S. Participation: Yes (as an observer).

Coordinating Committee for North America and the South West Pacific

    The Coordinating Committee for North America and the South West 
Pacific (CCNASWP) did not meet in 2021, nor does it plan to in 2022. 
The 16th Session of the CCNASWP is scheduled to convene from January 
30-February 3, 2023. The meeting agenda is not currently available.
    The Committee is expected to continue working on:

<bullet> Draft regional standard for fermented noni fruit juice

    Responsible Party: USDA/TFAA/USCO.
    U.S. Participation: Yes.

Coordinating Committee for the Near East

    The Coordinating Committee for the Near East (CCNE) did not meet in 
2021, nor does it plan to in 2022. The next CCNE meeting is planned for 
2023.
    Responsible Party: USDA/TFAA/USCO.
    U.S. Participation: Yes (as an observer).

Contact Information

    U.S. Codex Office, United States Department of Agriculture, Room 
4861, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-3700, Phone: +1 
(202) 205-7760, Email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#91e4e2f2fef5f4e9d1e4e2f5f0bff6fee7"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="86f3f5e5e9e2e3fec6f3f5e2e7a8e1e9f0">[email protected]</span></a>.

[FR Doc. 2022-14018 Filed 6-29-22; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE P


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