India Launches Modernization SOP for Food Streets at 54th Codex Committee Meeting

India took center stage at the 54th session of the Codex Committee on Food Hygiene (CCFH) in Nairobi, Kenya, showcasing its Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) aimed at modernizing food streets. Presented during the pre-session meeting on Sunday, March 10, 2024, India's SOP aligns with the proposed draft guidelines for Food Hygiene Control Measures in Traditional Markets for Food, a crucial agenda item for the session.

Alongside the SOP presentation, other critical topics on the session's agenda include "Guidelines for the Control of Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia Coli (STEC) in Fresh Leafy Vegetables and Sprouts" and "Guidelines for the Safe Use and Reuse of Water in Food Production and Processing in Fish and Fishery Products, Milk, and Milk Products."

The 54th session of CCFH, running from March 11 to March 15, 2024, marks a significant occasion as it organizes in Kenya, and is hosted by the Government of the United States of America.

India's interests are represented by representatives of the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA), and the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). Dr. Satyen Kumar Panda, Advisor at FSSAI, leads the Indian Delegation. In a proactive move, Dr. Panda engaged in the pre-session meeting with the Coordinating Committee for Asia (CCASIA), the US delegation, and the CCFH Chair, presenting India's SOP to Dr. Evelyne Mbandi, Chairperson of CCFH, and Dr. Jing Tian, Chairperson of CCASIA. The SOP was also disseminated among other country delegations, showcasing India's commitment to advancing food hygiene standards.

As discussions unfold over the coming days, the Indian Delegation remains dedicated to driving global advancements in food hygiene and safety. The aim is to foster knowledge exchange and promote best practices for the collective benefit of nations worldwide.