The 48th session of the Codex Alimentarius Committee on Food Labelling (CCFL48) brought significant changes and advancements. It finalized a crucial update of the allergen section in the General Standard on the Labelling of Prepackaged Foods and completed work on new guidelines related to new information technologies and e-commerce.

Unveiling the Latest in Food Labelling Standards

Food Allergen - A Milestone in GSLPF Provisions

CCFL48 achieved a major feat by finalizing the draft revised provisions to the General standard for the labelling of pre-packaged foods relevant to allergen labelling. This sent it for final adoption by CAC47. The committee also agreed to ensure full consistency between the Codex Code of practice on allergen management and the newly approved definitions. 1: The first full revision of these provisions since 1985 is a significant step forward. It shows the committee's commitment to addressing food allergies and providing clear labelling information. This update will have a profound impact on food businesses and consumers alike. 2: By aligning the concepts and definitions, it becomes easier for consumers to make informed choices about the foods they consume. It also provides a framework for food businesses to comply with allergen labelling requirements, reducing the risk of allergic reactions.

Precautionary Allergen Labelling - Making Progress

CCFL48 advanced the draft Guidelines on the use of precautionary allergen labelling for mid-process approval. The revised draft is included in the report, and the committee is working on further guidance. An EWG led by the USA is tasked with continuing the drafting process. 1: This work is crucial in ensuring the safety of consumers with food allergies. By establishing guidelines for precautionary labelling, the committee is taking proactive measures to prevent accidental exposure to allergens. 2: The involvement of various countries and organizations in the EWG shows the global nature of the issue and the need for collaborative efforts to address it. The recommendations from this group will play a vital role in shaping future allergen labelling practices.

E-Commerce - Final Adoption and Publication

CCFL48 agreed to forward the draft Guidelines on the provision of food information for pre-packaged foods via e-commerce to CAC47 for final adoption. The committee discussed various aspects of these guidelines, including durability, small unit exemptions, and information access. 1: The adoption of these guidelines will provide clear guidelines for food businesses operating in the e-commerce space. It will ensure that consumers receive accurate and relevant food information when purchasing products online. 2: The simplification of the guidelines and the removal of certain definitions show the committee's focus on practicality and effectiveness. These guidelines will help to streamline the e-commerce food labelling process and improve consumer confidence.

New Information Technology - Final Adoption and Publication

CCFL48 agreed to forward the Guidelines on the use of technology to provide food information in food labelling to CAC47 for final adoption. The guidelines include twelve main principles and define key terms. 1: The introduction of these guidelines marks a significant step in leveraging technology to enhance food labelling. It will enable food businesses to provide more detailed and accurate information to consumers through digital means. 2: The general nature of these guidelines makes them applicable to all foods, standardized or not. This flexibility will allow countries to adapt the guidelines to their specific needs and regulatory frameworks.

Joint Presentation and Multipack Formats - Detailed Discussions

CCFL48 returned the draft amendments to the GSLP relevant to joint presentation and multipack formats for redrafting. The committee discussed different options for reflecting these terms in the GSLPF. 1: These discussions highlight the complexity of labelling requirements for joint presentations and multipack formats. The committee is working to find the best way to ensure clear and consistent labelling in these situations. 2: The establishment of a new EWG led by Colombia will allow for further exploration and refinement of these provisions. This collaborative effort will help to address the specific challenges associated with joint presentations and multipack formats.

Proposed New Work - Flexibilities in Emergency Situations

CCFL48 agreed to start new work on the application of food labelling provisions in emergencies. The new work will be handled via a new EWG led by the USA and may involve a pre-CCFL49 VWG. 1: In times of emergencies, flexible food labelling provisions are essential to ensure a safe and adequate food supply. This new work will provide guidance to governments on how to handle such situations. 2: The consideration of existing Codex guidelines and the development of high-level principles and criteria will help to ensure that food labelling remains effective in emergency situations.

Miscellaneous - Prioritization Mechanism and Endorsements

CCFL48 formally adopted its priority-setting mechanism. It also endorsed certain labelling provisions and referred some matters to other committees for further consideration. 1: The adoption of the prioritization mechanism will help the committee focus on the most important issues and ensure efficient use of resources. 2: The endorsements and referrals demonstrate the committee's commitment to maintaining high standards in food labelling and addressing emerging issues.