The international collection of food standards and guidelines that informs national food regulation, including Australia's.
The international collection of food standards and guidelines that informs national food regulation, including Australia's. The Codex Alimentarius is a collection of internationally recognised food standards, codes of practice and guidelines developed by the Codex Alimentarius Commission, a body established by the Food and Agriculture Organization and the World Health Organization of the United Nations. Codex sets reference standards for food safety, hygiene, labelling, additives and contaminants. It is not directly enforceable in Australia, but it informs the development of the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code and provides the international baseline for food trade. Most Australian food businesses will not deal with Codex directly, because their obligations come from the Food Standards Code and their state or territory Food Act. However, the food safety principles they follow, such as HACCP, trace back to Codex texts. Codex becomes more relevant for exporters and importers, since aligning with Codex standards supports international trade and helps demonstrate that food meets internationally accepted safety and labelling expectations. An Australian honey exporter checks that its labelling and contaminant controls align with relevant Codex standards to smooth acceptance of its product in overseas markets.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Codex Alimentarius?
It is a collection of international food standards, guidelines and codes of practice developed by a joint FAO and WHO commission.
Is Codex enforceable in Australia?
No. Codex is not directly enforceable in Australia, but it informs the Food Standards Code and serves as an international reference.
Who develops Codex standards?
The Codex Alimentarius Commission, established by the Food and Agriculture Organization and the World Health Organization, develops them.
Why does Codex matter to Australian businesses?
It underpins internationally accepted food safety principles such as HACCP and is important for businesses trading food across borders.
How does Codex relate to FSANZ?
FSANZ considers relevant Codex standards when developing and reviewing the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code.
