Page tools
codexalimentarius > About Codex > FAQs > FAQ detail

How does Codex elaborate standards?

The normal elaboration process follows eight distinct steps, involving two rounds of comments by members and observers. A decision may be taken at step 5 to omit the second round of comments (steps 6 and 7). It can be decided at the beginning to follow the accelerated 5-Step Procedure with only one round of comments. The Commission may also decide that standards be elaborated through an accelerated 5-Step Procedure with only one round of comments. However, while taking this decision, all appropriate matters shall be taken into consideration, including the likelihood of new scientific information becoming available in the immediate future.

Development of standards

Proposals for new work usually originate at the Committee level, and are transmitted to the Commission by means of a project document, which is first examined by the Executive Committee, [...]

Development of standards

The normal elaboration process follows eight distinct steps, involving two rounds of comments by members and observers. A decision may be taken at step 5 to omit the second round [...]

Development of standards

Before a decision is made to undertake the development of a new standard or other text, a project proposal is prepared and discussed at Committee level. The procedure to approve [...]

Development of standards

Where Codex subsidiary bodies have been abolished or dissolved, or Codex committees have been adjourned sine die, the Secretariat keeps under review all Codex standards and related texts elaborated by [...]

Development of standards

The Codex Alimentarius has addressed several food safety related challenges over these years and the membership has also found solutions on a timely basis to meet these challenges. Codex stepped [...]