India participated in the 44th session of the Codex Committee on Nutrition and Foods for Special Dietary Uses (CCNFSDU), held from October 2-6, 2024, in Dresden, Germany. The gathering brought together over 170 countries to update and refine global guidelines on food safety, nutrition, and dietary standards. During the event, India actively contributed to important discussions surrounding nutrient reference values and the revision of probiotics guidelines, strengthening its role in shaping global nutrition standards.
Key Contributions by India
One of India’s major contributions at the meeting was its proposal for Nutrient Reference Values (NRV-R) for children aged 6 to 36 months. India suggested an approach that averaged the nutrient requirements for two sub-groups, 6-12 months and 12-36 months, providing a more practical and holistic solution. This proposal was accepted by the committee, marking a significant step in setting global nutritional benchmarks for young children.
India also advocated for updating the outdated probiotic guidelines established by FAO/WHO in 2001 and 2002. The revisions were deemed necessary to align with contemporary scientific advancements and global trade demands. India’s efforts received strong support from countries like Canada, Chile, and New Zealand, underscoring the importance of revising international standards for probiotics.
International Collaboration and Debates
India’s position on various issues resonated with the global community. There was an extensive debate around the inclusion of sweetness in follow-up formulas for children. The European Union suggested sensory testing to determine the sweetness level, but India objected, citing insufficient scientific backing. The committee ultimately sided with India, deciding to postpone the matter for further review.
India’s delegation, comprised of officials from key ministries, played a vital role in ensuring that food safety and consumer health remained at the forefront of the discussions. Several of India’s recommendations were included in the final report, showcasing the country’s growing influence in global food safety dialogues.
FAO/WHO Announcements and Leadership
During the session, the FAO/WHO made significant announcements, including the release of a Joint Statement on Healthy Diet Principles and updates on Alternative Animal Source Foods (A-ASFs). These initiatives reflect the global commitment to enhancing food safety and nutrition, especially in the face of evolving dietary patterns and environmental challenges.
The session was chaired by Ms. Martine Püster and co-chaired by Dr. Carolin Bendadani, with Germany’s Federal Minister of Food and Agriculture, Mr. Cem Özdemir, emphasizing the critical role that food safety plays in maintaining global security. He reiterated that international collaboration is essential to ensuring high-quality, safe food for populations around the world.
Overview of the Codex Committee on Nutrition and Special Diets
The Codex Committee on Nutrition and Foods for Special Dietary Uses (CCNFSDU) was established in 1966 to develop global standards for nutrition labeling, food additives, and foods for special dietary needs. The committee plays a critical role in addressing the nutritional needs of vulnerable groups, such as infants, the elderly, and individuals with allergies. The CCNFSDU’s biannual meetings aim to refine food standards and create guidelines that ensure food safety, quality, and accessibility on a global scale.
Summing Up
India’s participation in the 44th Codex Committee Meeting not only highlights its commitment to improving food safety and nutrition but also positions the country as a leader in shaping international dietary standards. By advocating for updated guidelines on probiotics and contributing to discussions on nutrient reference values, India has reinforced its dedication to advancing global health. The meeting underscored the importance of international cooperation in tackling food security and nutrition challenges, ensuring a safer and healthier future for all.