FAO/WHO coordinating committees

There are six Codex regions, each represented by a joint FAO/WHO coordinating committee. Each coordinating committee is responsible for defining the problems and needs of their region concerning food standards and food control. By working collectively at the regional level countries are able to highlight regulatory issues and problems arising from food control in order to strengthen food control infrastructures.

Standards

The regions can recommend to the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC) the development of global standards for products of interest to the region, including products considered by the coordinating committee to have a future international market potential. Coordinating committees can also develop regional standards for food products moving exclusively or almost exclusively within their region.

Advisory Role

Coordinating committees can draw the attention of CAC to any aspects of CAC's work that is of particular significance to the region and promote coordination of all regional food standards work undertaken by international governmental and non-governmental organizations within the region.

Coordination and implementation of Codex texts

These committees play a general coordinating role for the region and respond to requests from CAC. They also work to promote the acceptance of Codex standards and related texts by Members.