Codex Alimentarius Commission Praises India’s Standards on Millets

Last Updated05/12/2023

Recently, the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC) praised India’s Standards on Millets.
It also accepted India’s proposal for the development of global standards for millets during its 46th session held in Rome, Italy.
The proposal coincides with the celebration of 2023 as the International Year of Millets.

India framed a comprehensive group standard covering 15 types of millets with 8 specified quality parameters.
The standards received appreciation at the international level, with Codex currently having standards for Sorghum and Pearl Millet.

India proposed the development of global standards for millets, focusing on Finger millet, Barnyard millet, Kodo millet, Proso millet and Little millet as group standards.
The proposal was unanimously endorsed by representatives from 161 member countries, including the European Union.

It is an international food safety and quality standard-setting body.
It was created by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations in May 1963.
Objective: Protecting consumer’s health and ensuring fair practices in the food trade.
Members: It consists of 189 member countries including India.
Membership of the Commission is open to all Member Nations and Associate Members of FAO and WHO interested in international food standards.
The Commission meets in regular sessions once a year, alternating between Geneva and Rome.
Funding: Funded through the regular budgets of WHO and FAO.
All its work is subject to the approval of the two governing bodies of the parent organisations.
The Commission works in the six official languages of the UN.