Codex adopts new allergen management code of practice for food businesses

A new code of practice for food business operators to help them manage food allergens in their supply chains has been adopted by the international Codex Alimentarius Commission.

The Codex Alimentarius (Latin for ‘Food Code’) Commission is the standard setting body of the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and the World Health Organisation (WHO). Set up in the early 1960’s, they develop internationally recognised food standards and guidelines to help protect the health of consumers, ensure fair trade and promote co-ordination of standards between different countries.

There is an 8-step process to approve new standards during which all member countries have the opportunity to comment and contribute before the new standard can be adopted at the yearly general meeting.

This year’s meeting was held online for the first time in September, and one of the standards that has reached stage 8 and has now been adopted is the Code of Practice on Food Allergen Management for Food Business Operators.

The code of practice is designed to be used in conjunction with the existing General Principles of Food Hygiene standard and gives further detailed guidance on allergen management throughout the supply chain, from primary production and manufacturing to retail and food service end points.

The Anaphylaxis Campaign participated fully in the consultation process to represent the voice of the allergic consumer.

CEO Lynne Regent commented:

“We are delighted that after the lengthy consultation process, this new code of practice has now been adopted. With ever increasing globalization of the food industry it is so important to have internationally recognised standards to help food businesses proactively manage allergens throughout the supply chain and prevent cross-contamination.”

To find out more about the work of Codex Alimentarius visit:- http://www.fao.org/fao-who-codexalimentarius/en/