Problems linked with pathogenic micro-organisms in fresh produce, including associated public health and trade implications, have been reported in a number of countries worldwide. In noting this, the 38th Session of the Codex Committee on Food Hygiene (CCFH) requested FAO and WHO to provide scientific advice to support the development of commodity specific annexes for the Codex Alimentarius “Code of Hygienic Practice for Fresh Fruits and Vegetables”. In highlighting the need to address aspects related to the control of specific hazards of concern in particular fruit and vegetable products in more detail, the Committee provided terms of reference as guidance to the type of scientific advice required.

These terms of reference are extensive, and span the whole food chain. Given the need to provide advice in a timely manner FAO and WHO will address the various tasks, including the specific pathogen-commodity combinations to be addressed, in a prioritized manner.

Following the request of the 38th session FAO and WHO have initiated work to provide scientific advice on microbiological hazards in fresh produce. On 19 – 21 September 2007, FAO and WHO implemented a meeting of 10 experts to review the available data and identify the priority issues to be addressed from a global perspective. The report of the meeting is now available.

• Microbiological hazards in fresh fruits and vegetables: Meeting report Microbiological Risk Assessment Series, pre-publication version, 2008

FAO already have an extensive capacity building programme of activities to enhance the safety and quality of fresh fruits and vegetables. Therefore, in elaborating scientific advice as a basis for the development of management guidance on the control of microbiological hazards in fresh fruits and vegetables, FAO and WHO are taking into consideration information generated by these activities as well as data and information available in the peer reviewed literature and material submitted to FAO and WHO in response to the call for data.

• Call for data - details and information [pdf 62kb]
• Call for experts - details and information [pdf 59kb]
• Food safety expert roster - electronic application form [htm]