Attila Nagy has been Chairperson the Codex Committee on Methods of Analysis and Sampling (CCMAS) for almost a decade, and has previously served as Vice-chairperson of the committee. He is a passionate advocate for this work and is at the forefront of innovations such as databasing this vital work. We caught up with him to find out about his preparations for the 45th session of the committee, which will take place 9–13 March 2026 in Budapest, Hungary.

Attila thanks for your time.  Let’s start with the big picture for those outside the lab: what exactly are "methods of analysis and sampling," and why are they the backbone of international trade?

Most Codex standards are subject to various quality and safety parameters for the purpose of regulating international trade. What we regulate must be monitored and measured. We can measure what we have separated from the whole batch by sampling.

The conditions necessary for these sampling and measurements – with the exception of a few special fields – are discussed at the annual CCMAS conference and prepared for decision by the delegated experts. Of course, the preparatory work has been carried out for years by electronic working groups and a physical working group that meets regularly on the day before the conference. It is a great help that almost all major standardization bodies are represented in the work, directly supporting the selection of best practices.

What are the key topics on the agenda for CCMAS45?

Our most important task each year is to review and evaluate the methods submitted for endorsement. In addition, the revision of the Recommended methods of analysis and sampling (CXS 234-1999), which we know simply as “234”,continues with regard to fruit juices, cocoa products and chocolate, as well as sugars and honey methods. The latter is particularly important, as Hungarian acacia honey is a significant export product, so with the support of the Minister of Agriculture, we are preparing a little surprise!

Digitalizing the Codex methods of analysis and sampling has been a long-held goal of the Committee. With development underway since last year, how will this new database bridge the gap between complex standards and the experts who need to use them every day?

Codex standards do not exist for their own sake: our goal is for them to be used and to serve as a real regulatory basis for all Members. In the 21st century, similar to other long-established Codex databases, electronically accessible, searchable standards provide truly effective assistance. This is my old dream . With the support of the Codex Secretariat, development began at the end of 2025, providing an opportunity, in addition to 234, to publish all sampling and analytical methods regulated by the Codex system. Once completed, it will be able to quickly and efficiently assist laboratory colleagues worldwide in selecting the appropriate methods.

It sounds like a highly collaborative field. Talking about collaboration, what message do you have for delegates, and especially new delegates?

Every year, I ask and encourage experts to work with us, together in active working groups and at the plenary session. CCMAS provides an opportunity to meet and consult with 170-180 experts from more than 40 countries and 15 standardization bodies around the world. I believe that this is a huge opportunity for professionals working in the "white coat" sector, and for Codex, having as many active professionals as possible is a guarantee that the best regulations can be developed.

In addition, CCMAS is in contact with almost all committees, and we are trying to perform our joint tasks through increasingly rapid and effective forms of cooperation, which offer opportunities for professionals working in the same field to connect within countries, regionally, and even globally.

Read more

CCMAS45 webpage