The Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC) is set to reach another significant milestone as the joint Electronic Working Group (EWG) of the Codex Committee on Pesticide Residues (CCPR) and the Codex Committee on Residues of Veterinary Drugs in Foods (CCRVDF) meets virtually on 28–29 April 2026. This first‑ever virtual joint working group brings together CCPR and CCRVDF in a coordinated effort to advance the harmonization of maximum residue limits (MRLs) for dual‑use compounds - chemicals that may be used either as pesticides or as veterinary drugs - as well as the harmonization of food descriptors of animal and plant origin used by both Committees, helping to ensure that Codex MRLs for dual‑use compounds are applied consistently across agricultural sectors, reduce the administrative burden on national authorities managing multiple regulatory frameworks, and support trade facilitation while protecting consumer health.

“Enhanced coordination between CCPR and CCRVDF was critically important to Codex” noted Weili Shan, Chairperson of CCPR, further mentioning that this collaboration exemplified an innovative working model that could improve the overall efficiency of the Codex system. Brandi Robinson, Chairperson of CCRVDF, further stressed the importance of members participation and engagement for the success of the meeting.

To facilitate the goals of the virtual working group, the Codex Secretariat has requested Member States participate in the meeting and nominate at least two delegates - one representing animal health service and one from plant health service - to ensure a comprehensive technical exchange. Codex members and observers are invited to reach out their Codex contact points to register to this meeting.

"The Joint EWG provides a forward‑looking mechanism for coordination between CCPR and CCRVDF, marking a landmark step toward a more coherent setting of MRLs for pesticides and veterinary drugs in support of robust, globally aligned food safety standards”, said Gracia Brisco, Codex Secretariat.

The outcomes of these discussions will directly inform recommendations for the 49th Session of the Codex Alimentarius Commission in July 2026 and set the stage for a historic joint session of CCPR and CCRVDF scheduled for early 2027.

Meeting details:

• Dates: 28–29 April 2026
• Time: 15:00 to 17:00 CEST
• Language: English, French, and Spanish

Read more

Relevant circular letters are currently available in English, French, and Spanish on the official committees webpage.

Comments submitted in response to these circular letters were distributed, in their original language only, to all Codex Contact Points of Codex Members and Observers Organizations via the Codex Electronic Distribution List (Codex‑L).

Databases for Pesticides and Veterinary Drugs Residues in Food

Photo credit © FAO/Riccardo De Luca