thefederalregister.org Federal Register Research Archive

Document

International Standard-Setting Activities

This notice informs the public of the sanitary and phytosanitary standard-setting activities of the Codex Alimentarius Commission (Codex), in accordance with section 491 of the ...

PDF versionSource Record
Department of Agriculture
Food Safety and Inspection Service
  1. [Docket No. FSIS-2015-0010]

AGENCY:

Office of Food Safety, USDA.

ACTION:

Notice.

SUMMARY:

This notice informs the public of the sanitary and phytosanitary standard-setting activities of the Codex Alimentarius Commission (Codex), in accordance with section 491 of the Trade Agreements Act of 1979, as amended, and the Uruguay Round Agreements Act. This notice also provides a list of other standard-setting activities of Codex, including commodity standards, guidelines, codes of practice, and revised texts. This notice, which covers Codex activities during the time periods from June 1, 2014, to May 31, 2015, and June 1, 2015, to May 31, 2016, seeks comments on standards under consideration and recommendations for new standards.

ADDRESSES:

FSIS invites interested persons to submit comments on this notice. Comments may be submitted by one of the following methods:

  • Federal eRulemaking Portal: This Web site provides the ability to type short comments directly into the comment field on this Web page or attach a file for lengthier comments. Go to http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the on-line instructions at that site for submitting comments.
  • Mail, including CD-ROMs, etc.: Send to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), FSIS, 1400 Independence Avenue SW., Mailstop 3782, Room 8-163B, Washington, DC 20250-3700.
  • Hand- or courier-delivered items: Deliver to OPPD, RIMS, Docket Clearance Unit, Patriots Plaza 3, 355 E Street SW., Room 8-164, Washington, DC 20250-3700.

Instructions: All items submitted by mail or electronic mail must include the Agency name and docket number FSIS-2015-0010. Comments received in response to this docket will be made available for public inspection and posted without change, including any personal information, to http://www.regulations.gov.

Please state that your comments refer to Codex and, if your comments relate to specific Codex committees, please identify the committee(s) in your comments and submit a copy of your comments to the delegate from that particular committee.

Docket: For access to background documents or comments received, visit the FSIS Docket Room at Patriots Plaza 3, 355 E Street SW., Room 8-164, Washington, DC 20250-3700, between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. A complete list of U.S. delegates and alternate delegates can be found in Attachment 2 of this notice.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Mary Frances Lowe, United States Manager for Codex, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of Food Safety, Room 4861, South Agriculture Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250-3700; telephone: (202) 205-7760; fax: (202) 720-3157; email: .

For information pertaining to particular committees, contact the delegate of that committee. Documents pertaining to Codex and specific committee agendas are accessible via the Internet at http://www.codexalimentarius.org/​meetings-reports/​en/​. The U.S. Codex Office also maintains a Web site at http://www.fsis.usda.gov/​wps/​portal/​fsis/​topics/​international-affairs/​us-codex-alimentarius.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Background

The World Trade Organization (WTO) was established on January 1, 1995, as the common international institutional framework for the conduct of trade relations among its members in matters related to the Uruguay Round Trade Agreements. The WTO is the successor organization to the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT). United States membership in the WTO was approved and the Uruguay Round Agreements Act (Uruguay Round Agreements) was signed into law by the President on December 8, 1994, Public Law 103-465, 108 Stat. 4809. The Uruguay Round Agreements became effective, with respect to the United States, on January 1, 1995. The Uruguay Round Agreements amended the Trade Agreements Act of 1979. Pursuant to section 491 of the Trade Agreements Act of 1979, as amended, the President is required to designate an agency to be “responsible for informing the public of the sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) standard-setting activities of each international standard-setting organization.” (19 U.S. C. 2578) The main international standard-setting organizations are Codex, the World Organisation for Animal Health, and the International Plant Protection Convention. The President, pursuant to Proclamation No. 6780 of March 23, 1995 (60 FR 15845), designated the U.S. Department of Agriculture as the agency responsible for informing the public of the SPS standard-setting activities of each international standard-setting organization. The Secretary of Agriculture has delegated to the Office of Food Safety the responsibility to inform the public of the SPS standard-setting activities of Codex. The Office of Food Safety has, in turn, assigned the responsibility for informing the public of the SPS standard-setting activities of Codex to the U.S. Codex Office.

Codex was created in 1963 by two United Nations organizations, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO). Codex is the principal international organization for establishing standards for food. Through adoption of food standards, codes of practice, and other guidelines developed by its committees and by promoting their adoption and implementation by governments, Codex seeks to protect the health of consumers, ensure fair practices in the food trade, and promote coordination of food standards work undertaken by international governmental and nongovernmental organizations. In the United States, U.S. Codex activities are managed and carried out by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA); the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Department of Health and Human Services (HHS); the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Department of Commerce (DOC); and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

As the agency responsible for informing the public of the SPS standard-setting activities of Codex, the Office of Food Safety publishes this notice in the Federal Register annually. Attachment 1 (Sanitary and Phytosanitary Activities of Codex) sets forth the following information:

1. The SPS standards under consideration or planned for consideration; and

2. For each SPS standard specified:

a. A description of the consideration or planned consideration of the standard;

b. Whether the United States is participating or plans to participate in the consideration of the standard;

c. The agenda for United States participation, if any; and

d. The agency responsible for representing the United States with respect to the standard. ( printed page 33231)

TO OBTAIN COPIES OF THE STANDARDS LISTED IN ATTACHMENT 1, PLEASE CONTACT THE CODEX DELEGATE OR THE U.S. CODEX OFFICE.

This notice also solicits public comment on standards that are currently under consideration or planned for consideration and recommendations for new standards. The delegate, in conjunction with the responsible agency, will take the comments received into account in participating in the consideration of the standards and in proposing matters to be considered by Codex.

The U.S. delegate will facilitate public participation in the United States Government's activities relating to Codex Alimentarius. The U.S. delegate will maintain a list of individuals, groups, and organizations that have expressed an interest in the activities of the Codex committees and will disseminate information regarding U.S. delegation activities to interested parties. This information will include the status of each agenda item; the U.S. Government's position or preliminary position on the agenda items; and the time and place of planning meetings and debriefing meetings following Codex committee sessions. In addition, the U.S. Codex Office makes much of the same information available through its Web page, http://www.fsis.usda.gov/​wps/​portal/​fsis/​topics/​international-affairs/​us-codex-alimentarius. If you would like to access or receive information about specific committees, please visit the Web page or notify the appropriate U.S. delegate or the U.S. Codex Office, Room 4861, South Agriculture Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250-3700 ( ).

The information provided in Attachment 1 describes the status of Codex standard-setting activities by the Codex Committees for the time periods from June 1, 2014, to May 31, 2015, and June 1, 2015, to May 31, 2016. Attachment 2 provides a list of U.S. Codex Officials (including U.S. delegates and alternate delegates). A list of forthcoming Codex sessions may be found at: http://www.codexalimentarius.org/​meetings-reports/​en/​.

Additional Public Notification

Public awareness of all segments of rulemaking and policy development is important. Consequently, FSIS will announce this Federal Register publication on-line through the FSIS Web page located at: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/​federal-register.

FSIS also will make copies of this publication available through the FSIS Constituent Update, which is used to provide information regarding FSIS policies, procedures, regulations, Federal Register notices, FSIS public meetings, and other types of information that could affect or would be of interest to our constituents and stakeholders. The Update is available on the FSIS Web page. Through the Web page, FSIS is able to provide information to a much broader, more diverse audience. In addition, FSIS offers an email subscription service which provides automatic and customized access to selected food safety news and information. This service is available at: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/​subscribe. Options range from recalls to export information, regulations, directives, and notices. Customers can add or delete subscriptions themselves, and have the option to password protect their accounts.

Done at Washington, DC, on: June 8, 2015.

Mary Frances Lowe,

U.S. Manager for Codex Alimentarius.

Attachment 1

Sanitary and Phytosanitary Activities of Codex

Codex Alimentarius Commission and Executive Committee

The Codex Alimentarius Commission will convene for its 38th Session July 6-11, 2015, in Geneva, Switzerland. At that time, it will consider standards, codes of practice, and related matters forwarded to the Commission by the general subject committees, commodity committees, and regional coordinating committees for adoption as Codex standards and guidance. The Commission will also consider the implementation status of the Codex Strategic Plan, the management of the Trust Fund for the Participation of Developing Countries and Countries in Transition in the work of the Codex Alimentarius and a proposal for a successor initiative to the Trust Fund, papers prepared by the Secretariat on Codex Work Management and Functioning of the Executive Committee and Revitalization of the FAO/WHO Coordinating Committees, as well as financial and budgetary issues.

Prior to the Commission meeting, the Executive Committee will meet at its 17th Session, June 30-July 3, 2015. It is composed of the chairperson; vice-chairpersons; seven members elected from the Commission from each of the following geographic regions: Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean, Near East, North America, and South-West Pacific; and regional coordinators from the six regional committees. Canada is the elected representative from North America; the United States will participate as an advisor. The Executive Committee will conduct a critical review of the elaboration of Codex standards and will consider the implementation status of the Codex Strategic Plan, the management of the Trust Fund for the Participation of Developing Countries and Countries in Transition in the Work of the Codex Alimentarius and a proposal for a successor initiative to the Trust Fund, papers prepared by the Secretariat on Codex Work Management and Functioning of the Executive Committee and Revitalization of the FAO/WHO Coordinating Committees, as well as financial and budgetary issues.

Responsible Agency: USDA/FSIS.

U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Residues of Veterinary Drugs in Foods

The Codex Committee on Residues of Veterinary Drugs in Foods (CCRVDF) determines priorities for the consideration of residues of veterinary drugs in foods and recommends Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) for veterinary drugs. The Committee also develops codes of practice, as may be required, and considers methods of sampling and analysis for the determination of veterinary drug residues in food. A veterinary drug is defined as any substance applied or administered to any food producing animal, such as meat or milk producing animals, poultry, fish or bees, whether used for therapeutic, prophylactic or diagnostic purposes, or for modification of physiological functions or behavior.

A Codex Maximum Residue Limit (MRL) for residues of veterinary drugs is the maximum concentration of residue resulting from the use of a veterinary drug (expressed in mg/kg or ug/kg on a fresh weight basis) that is recommended by the Codex Alimentarius Commission to be permitted or recognized as acceptable in or on a food. Residues of a veterinary drug include the parent compounds or their metabolites in any edible portion of the animal product, and include residues of associated impurities of the veterinary drug concerned. An MRL is based on the type and amount of residue considered to be without any toxicological hazard for human health as expressed by the Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) or on the basis of a temporary ADI that utilizes an additional safety factor. The MRL also takes into account other relative public health risks as well as food technological aspects. ( printed page 33232)

When establishing an MRL, consideration is also given to residues that occur in food of plant origin or the environment. Furthermore, the MRL may be reduced to be consistent with official recommended or authorized usage, approved by national authorities, of the veterinary drugs under practical conditions.

An Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) is an estimate made by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) of the amount of a veterinary drug, expressed on a body weight basis, which can be ingested daily in food over a lifetime without appreciable health risk.

The Committee met for its 22nd Session in San José, Costa Rica, from April 27-May 1, 2015. The relevant document is REP15/RVDF. The following items are to be considered for adoption by the 38th Session of the Commission in July 2015:

To be considered for approval:

T o be considered at Step 5/8:

The Committee will continue working on:

The Committee recommended that work on the following items be considered for discontinuation:

Responsible Agencies: HHS/FDA/Center for Veterinary Medicine; USDA/FSIS.

U.S. Participation: Yes.

Codex Committee on Contaminants in Foods

The Codex Committee on Contaminants in Foods (CCCF) establishes or endorses permitted maximum levels (ML) and, where necessary, revises existing guidelines levels for contaminants and naturally occurring toxicants in food and feed; prepares priority lists of contaminants and naturally occurring toxicants for risk assessment by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives; considers and elaborates methods of analysis and sampling for the determination of contaminants and naturally occurring toxicants in food and feed; considers and elaborates standards or codes of practice for related subjects; and considers other matters assigned to it by the Commission in relation to contaminants and naturally occurring toxicants in food and feed.

The Committee convened for its 9th Session in New Delhi, India, March 16-20, 2015. The relevant document is REP15/CF. The following items are to be considered for adoption by the 38th Session of the Commission in July 2015:

To be considered for approval:

To be considered for adoption at Step 8 and 5/8:

To be considered for adoption at Step 8:

To be considered for adoption at Step 5:

To be considered at Step 8 and 5/8:

To be considered at Step 5/8:

Proposed draftSpecifications for the Identity and Purity of Food Additives

  • Proposed draft amendments to the International Numbering System (INS) for Food Additives (CAC/GL 36-1989)

    • The Committee will continue working on:

    ○ Information and justification on the use of nisin (INS 234) in food category 08.3.2 (Heat-treated processed comminuted meat, poultry, and game products) in general, and specifically in products conforming to the corresponding commodity standards (electronic Working Group (eWG) led by the United States)

    ○ Outstanding food additive provisions in Table 1 and 2 in food categories 01.2 through 08.4, with the exclusion of food categories 04.1.2.4, 04.2.2.4, 04.2.2.5, 04.2.2.6, 05.1.1, 05.1.3 and 05.1.4 (from the 47th CCFA, Agenda Item 5(c))

    The Committee also agreed to convene a physical Working Group on the GSFA immediately preceding the 48th session of CCFA to be chaired by the United States that will discuss:

    Responsible Agency: HHS/FDA.

    U.S. Participation: Yes.

    Codex Committee on Pesticide Residues

    The Codex Committee on Pesticide Residues (CCPR) is responsible for establishing maximum limits for pesticide residues in specific food items or in groups of food; establishing maximum limits for pesticide residues in certain animal feeding stuffs moving in international trade where this is justified for reasons of protection of human health; preparing priority lists of pesticides for evaluation by the Joint FAO/WHO Meeting on Pesticide Residues (JMPR); considering methods of sampling and analysis for the determination of pesticide residues in food and feed; considering other matters in relation to the safety of food and feed containing pesticide residues; and establishing maximum limits for environmental and industrial contaminants showing chemical or other similarity to pesticides in specific food items or groups of food.

    The 47th Session of the Committee met in Beijing, China, April 13-18, 2015. The relevant document is REP15/PR. The following items will be considered at the 38th Session of the Codex Alimentarius Commission in July 2015:

    To be considered for adoption:

    Guidance to Facilitate the Establishment of MRLs for Pesticides for Minor Crops including Appendix on Methodology to Assign Crops into Consumption Categories (for inclusion as an annex to the Risk Analysis Principles Applied by the Codex Committee on Pesticide Residues

    To be considered for adoption at Step 5/8:

    To be considered for adoption at Step 5:

    The Committee will continue working on:

    1. Group 011—Fruiting vegetables, cucurbits

    2. Group 020—Grasses of cereal grains

    3. Group 021—Grasses for sugars or syrup production

    4. Group 024—Seeds for beverages and sweets

    Responsible Agencies: EPA; USDA/FSIS.

    U.S. Participation: Yes.

    Codex Committee on Methods of Analysis and Sampling

    The Codex Committee on Methods of Analysis and Sampling (CCMAS) defines the criteria appropriate to Codex Methods of Analysis and Sampling; serves as a coordinating body for Codex with other international groups working on methods of analysis and sampling and quality assurance systems for laboratories; specifies, on the basis of final recommendations submitted to it by the bodies referred to above, reference methods of analysis and sampling appropriate to Codex standards which are generally applicable to a number of foods; considers, amends if necessary, and endorses as appropriate, methods of analysis and sampling proposed by Codex commodity committees, except for methods of analysis and sampling for residues of pesticides or veterinary drugs in food, the assessment of microbiological quality and safety in food, and the assessment of specifications for food additives; elaborates sampling plans and procedures, as may be required; considers specific sampling and analysis problems submitted to it by the Commission or any of its Committees; and defines procedures, protocols, guidelines or related texts for the assessment of food laboratory proficiency, as well as quality assurance systems for laboratories.

    The 36th Session of the Committee met in Budapest, Hungary, February 23-27, 2015. The relevant document is REP15/MAS. The following items will be considered by the Commission at its 38th Session in July 2015:

    To be considered for adoption:

    Methods of Analysis and Sampling in Codex Standards at different steps

    To be considered for adoption at Step 5/8:

    Principles for the Use of Sampling and Testing in International Food Trade—Proposed Draft Explanatory Notes

    The Committee will continue working on:

    Responsible Agencies: HHS/FDA; USDA/Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration.

    Codex Committee on Food Import and Export Inspection and Certification Systems

    The Codex Committee on Food Import and Export Inspection and Certification Systems is responsible for developing principles and guidelines for food import and export inspection and certification systems, with a view to harmonizing methods and procedures that protect the health of consumers, ensure fair trading practices, and facilitate international trade in foodstuffs; developing principles and guidelines for the application of measures by the competent authorities of exporting and importing countries to provide assurance, where necessary, that foodstuffs comply with requirements, especially statutory health requirements; developing guidelines for the utilization, as and when appropriate, of quality assurance systems to ensure that foodstuffs conform with requirements and promote the recognition of these systems in facilitating trade in food products under bilateral/multilateral arrangements by countries; developing guidelines and criteria with respect to format, declarations, and language of such official certificates as countries may require with a view towards international harmonization; making recommendations for information exchange in relation to food import/export control; consulting as necessary with other international groups working on matters related to food inspection and certification systems; and considering other matters assigned to it by the Commission in relation to food inspection and certification systems.

    The 21st Session of the Committee convened in Brisbane, Australia, October 13-17, 2014. The relevant document is REP15/FICS. There are no items to be considered for adoption by the Commission at its 38th Session in July 2015. The Committee will continue working on the following items:

    Responsible Agencies: USDA/FSIS; HHS/FDA.

    U.S. Participation: Yes.

    Codex Committee on Food Labelling

    The Codex Committee on Food Labelling drafts provisions on labeling applicable to all foods; considers, amends, and endorses draft specific provisions on labeling prepared by the Codex Committees drafting standards, codes of practice, and guidelines; and studies specific labeling problems assigned by the Codex Alimentarius Commission. The Committee also studies problems associated with the advertisement of food with particular reference to claims and misleading descriptions.

    The Committee met for its 42nd Session in Rome, Italy, October 21-24, 2014. The relevant document is REP15/FL. There are no items to be considered for adoption by the Commission at its 38th Session (July 2015). The Committee plans to continue work on the following items:

    Revision of theGuidelines for the Production, Processing, Labeling and Marketing of Organically Produced Foods: Organic Aquaculture

    Revision of theGeneral Standard for the Labelling of Prepackaged Foods: Date Marking

  • Discussion paper on the labelling of non-retail containers
  • Discussion paper on issues related to Internet sales of food

    • Proposal to revise theGeneral Guidelines for the Use of the Term “Halal” (CAC/GL 24-1997)

    Responsible Agencies: HHS/FDA; USDA/FSIS. ( printed page 33235)

    U.S. Participation: Yes.

    Codex Committee on Food Hygiene

    The Codex Committee on Food Hygiene:

    The Committee convened for its 46th Session in Lima, Peru, November 17-21, 2014. The relevant document is REP 15/FH. The following items will be considered by the Commission at its 38th Session in July 2015:

    To be considered for adoption:

    To be considered for adoption at Step 8:

    DraftGuidelines for the Control of Trichinella spp. In Meat of Suidae

    To be considered for adoption at Step 5/8:

    Proposed DraftCode of Hygienic Practice for Low-Moisture Foods

    The Committee will continue working on:

    Proposed DraftGuidelines for the Control of Nontyphoidal Salmonella spp. in Beef and Pork Meat

    Proposed DraftGuidelines on the Application of General Principles of Food Hygiene to the Control of Foodborne Parasites

    Discussion paper on the need to revise theCode of Hygienic Practice for Fresh Fruits and Vegetables (CAC/RCP 53-2003)

    Discussion paper on the revision of theGeneral Principles of Food Hygiene (CAC/RCP 1-1969) and its Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points annex

    Proposed annexes to theCode of Hygienic Practice for Low-Moisture Foods

  • New Work Proposals/Forward Work Plan

    • Responsible Agencies: HHS/FDA; USDA/FSIS.

    U.S. Participation: Yes.

    Codex Committee on Fresh Fruits and Vegetables

    The Codex Committee on Fresh Fruits and Vegetables (CCFFV) is responsible for elaborating worldwide standards and codes of practice as may be appropriate for fresh fruits and vegetables; for consulting as necessary, with other international organizations in the standards development process to avoid duplication.

    The 19th Session of the Committee will meet in Mexico, October 5-9, 2015. The Committee will continue discussing the following items:

    Proposed draftStandard for Ware Potato

    Proposed draftStandard for Garlic

    Proposed draftStandard for Aubergines

    Proposed draftStandard for Kiwifruit

  • Proposals for new work for Codex standards for fresh fruits and vegetables
  • Proposed layout for Codex standards for fresh fruits and vegetables

    • Responsible Agencies: USDA/AMS; HHS/FDA.

    U.S. Participation: Yes.

    Codex Committee on Nutrition and Foods for Special Dietary Uses

    The Codex Committee on Nutrition and Foods for Special Dietary Uses (CCNFSDU) is responsible for studying nutrition issues referred to it by the Codex Alimentarius Commission. The Committee also drafts general provisions, as appropriate, on nutritional aspects of all foods and develops standards, guidelines, or related texts for foods for special dietary uses in cooperation with other committees where necessary; considers, amends if necessary, and endorses provisions on nutritional aspects proposed for inclusion in Codex standards, guidelines, and related texts.

    The Committee convened for its 36th Session in Bali, Indonesia, November 24-28, 2014. The reference document is REP 15/NFSDU. The following items will be considered by the Commission at its 38th Session in July 2015:

    To be considered for adoption:

    The amendments to the annex of theGuidelines on Nutrition Labelling (CAC/GL2-1985)

    Proposed draft revision of theList of Food Additives in Codex Stan 72-1981

    Proposal for inclusion of zinc citrates in theAdvisory Lists of Nutrient Compounds for Use in Foods for Special Dietary Uses Intended for Infants and Young Children (CAC/GL10-1979)

    Draft amendment to theStandard for Foods for Special Dietary Use for Persons Intolerant to Gluten (Codex STAN 118-1979), to add the term “Khorasan wheat”

    To be considered for adoption at Step 8:

    Draft revision of theGeneral Principles for the Addition of Essential Nutrients to Foods

    To be considered for adoption at Step 5/8:

    Proposed draftAdditional or Revised Nutrient Reference Values for Labelling Purposes in the Guidelines on Nutrition Labelling (CAC/GL2-1985)

    Proposed draftNutrient Reference Value (NRV) for Potassium in Relation to the Risk of Non-Communicable Disease (NCD)

    To be recommended for discontinuation:

    Proposed draft amendment of theStandard for Processed Cereal-Based Foods for infants and Young Children (CODEX STAN 74-1981) to include a New Part B for Underweight Children

    The Committee will continue working on:

    Proposed draftAdditional or Revised Nutrient Reference Values for Labelling Purposes in the Guidelines on Nutrition Labelling (Vitamin A, D, E, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Chromium, Copper, Chloride & Iron)

    Review of theStandard for Follow-up Formula (Codex Stan 156-1987)

  • Proposed draft definition of biofortification and/or biofortified foods
  • Proposed draft NRV-NCD for EPA and DHA long chain omega-3 fatty acids

    • Discussion paper onClaim for “Free” for Trans Fatty Acids

  • Discussion paper on a standard for ready to use foods (RUF)

    • Responsible Agencies: HHS/FDA; USDA/Agricultural Research Service (ARS).

    U.S. Participation: Yes.

    Codex Committee on Fish and Fishery Products

    The Fish and Fishery Products Committee (CCFFP) is responsible for elaborating standards for fresh, frozen and otherwise processed fish, crustaceans, and mollusks. The Committee will convene its 34th Session in A lesund, Norway, October 19-24, 2015. The Committee will continue working on the following agenda items:

    DraftCode of Practice for Processing of Fish Sauce ( printed page 33236)

    Proposed draftCode of Practice on the Processing of Fresh and Quick Frozen Raw Scallop Products (section on sturgeon caviar)

    Proposed food additive provisions in theStandard for Fish and Fishery Products

  • Discussion paper on Nitrogen Factors (amendments to section 7.4 of the Standard for Quick Frozen Fish Sticks (Fish Fingers), Fish Portions and Fish Fillets- Breaded or in Batter (Codex Stan 166-1989)

    • Code of Practice for Fish and Fishery Products (optional final product requirements for commodities/appendix on Map)

  • Discussion paper on histamine

    • Other Business and Future Work

    New work proposal on aStandard for Fresh Chilled Pirarucu Fillet or Whole Fish

  • Discussion paper on the future of the Committee

    • Responsible Agencies: HHS/FDA; USDC/NOAA/NMFS.

    U.S. Participation: Yes.

    Codex Committee on Fats and Oils

    The Codex Committee on Fats and Oils (CCFO) is responsible for elaborating worldwide standards for fats and oils of animal, vegetable, and marine origin, including margarine and olive oil.

    The 24th session of the Committee convened in Melaka, Malaysia, February 9-13, 2015. The reference document is REP 15/FO. The following items will be considered by the Commission at its 38th Session in July 2015:

    To be considered for adoption:

    Amendments to Appendix 2 “List of Acceptable Previous Cargoes” of theCode of Practice for the Storage and Transport of Edible Fats and Oils in Bulk (CAC/RCP 36-1987)

  • Reference to Acceptance/Voluntary Application in Codex Standards

    • To be considered for adoption at Step 5:

    Proposed draftStandard for Fish Oils

    The Committee will continue working on:

    Amendments to Appendix 2 “List of Acceptable Previous Cargoes” of theCode of Practice for the Storage and Transport of Edible Fats and Oils in Bulk (CAC/RCP 36-1987)

  • Addition of Palm Oil with High Oleic Acid (OxG)
  • Revision of Fatty Acid Composition and Other Quality Factors of Peanut Oil
  • Revision of the Limit for Campesterol
  • Revision of Limits of Oleic and Linoleic Acids in Sunflower Seed Oils
  • Inclusion of provisions for Walnut Oil, Almond Oil, Hazelnut Oil, Pistachio Oil, Flaxseed Oil, and Avocado Oil
  • Replacement of Acid Value with Free Fatty Acids for Virgin Palm Oils
  • Inclusion of Quality Parameters for Crude Rice Bran Oil

    • Discussion paper on the amendment of theStandard for Named Animal Fats (Codex Stan 211-1999) Inclusion of Unrefined Edible Tallow

    To be recommended for discontinuation:

    Responsible Agency: USDA/FSIS.

    U.S. Participation: No.

    Coordinating Committee for North America and the South West Pacific (CCNASWP)

    The Committee (CCNASWP) convened its 13th Session in Kokopo, Papua New Guinea, September 23-26, 2014. The reference document is REP 15/NASWP. There are no items to be considered for adoption by the Commission at its 38th Session in July 2015.

    The Committee will continue working on:

    Proposed draftStandard for Fermented Noni Juice

  • Implementation Status of the Strategic Plan for CCNAWSWP 2014-2019
  • Discussion paper on kava
  • Areas of new work of interest to the Region

    • Responsible Agency: USDA/FSIS.

    U.S. Participation: Yes.

    Contact

    U.S. Codex Office, United States Department of Agriculture, Room 4861, South Agriculture Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250-3700, Phone: (202) 205-7760, Fax: (202) 720-3157, Email: .

    Attachment 2

    U.S. CODEX Alimentarius Officials

    CODEX Chairpersons From the United States

    Codex Committee on Food Hygiene

    Emilio Esteban, DVM, MBA, MPVM, Ph.D., Executive Associate for Laboratory Services, Office of Public Health Science, Food Safety and Inspection Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 950 College Station Road, Athens, GA 30605, Phone: (706) 546-3429, Fax: (706) 546-3428, Email: .

    Codex Committee on Processed Fruits and Vegetables

    Richard Boyd, Chief, Contract Services Branch, Specialty Crops Inspection Division, Fruit and Vegetable Program, Agricultural Marketing Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 1400 Independence Avenue SW., Mail Stop 0247, Room 0726-South Building, Washington, DC 20250, Phone: (202) 690-1201, Fax: (202) 690-1527, Email: .

    Codex Committee on Residues of Veterinary Drugs in Foods

    Steven D. Vaughn, DVM, Director, Office of New Animal Drug Evaluation, Center for Veterinary Medicine, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, MPN 2, Room 236, 7520 Standish Place, Rockville, Maryland 20855, Phone: (240) 402-0571, Fax: (240) 276-8242 .

    U.S. Delegates and Alternate Delegates

    General Subject Committees

    Commodity Committees (Active and Adjourned)

    AdHoc Task Forces

    Regional Coordinating Committees

    Worldwide General Codex Subject Committees

    Contaminants in Foods (Host Government—The Netherlands)

    U.S. Delegate

    Nega Beru, Ph.D., Director, Office of Food Safety (HFS-300), Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 5100 Paint Branch Parkway, College Park, MD 20740, Phone: +1 (240) 402-1700, Fax: +1 (301) 436-2651, .

    Alternate Delegate

    Kerry Dearfield, Ph.D., Chief Scientist, Office of Public Health Science, Food Safety and Inspection Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Room 9-195, PP 3 (Mail Stop 3766), 1400 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250, Phone: +1 (202) 690-6451, Fax: +1 (202) 690-6337, .

    Food Additives (Host Government—China)

    U.S. Delegate

    Susan E. Carberry, Ph.D., Supervisory Chemist, Division of Petition Review, Office of Food Additive Safety (HFS-265), Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 5100 Paint Branch Parkway, College Park, MD 20740, Phone: +1 (240) 402-1269, Fax: +1 (301) 436-2972, .

    Alternate Delegate

    Paul S. Honigfort, Ph.D., Consumer Safety Officer, Division of Food Contact Notifications (HFS-275), Office of Food Additive Safety, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 5100 Paint Branch Parkway, College Park, MD 20740, Phone: +1 (240) 402-1206, Fax: +1 (301) 436-2965, .

    Food Hygiene (Host Government—United States)

    U.S. Delegate

    Jenny Scott, Senior Advisor, Office of Food Safety, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 5100 Paint Branch Parkway, HFS-300, Room 3B-014, College Park, MD 20740-3835, Phone: +1 (240) 402-2166, Fax: +1 (301) 436-2632, .

    Alternate Delegates

    Kerry Dearfield, Ph.D., Chief Scientist, Office of Public Health Science, Food Safety and Inspection Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Room 9-195, PP 3 (Mail Stop 3766), 1400 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250, Phone: +1 (202) 690-6451, Fax: +1 (202) 690-6337, .

    Andrew Chi Yuen Yeung, Ph.D., Consumer Safety Officer, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 5100 Paint Branch Parkway, HFS-316, College Park, MD 20740, Phone: +1 (240) 402-1541, Fax: +1 (301) 436-2632, .

    Food Import and Export Certification and Inspection Systems (Host Government—Australia)

    U.S. Delegate

    Mary Stanley, Director, Office of International Coordination, Food Safety and Inspection Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Room 2925, South Agriculture Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250, Phone: +1 (202) 720-0287, Fax: +1 (202) 720-4929, .

    Alternate Delegate

    Vacant

    Food Labelling (Host Government—Canada)

    U.S. Delegate

    Felicia B. Billingslea, Director, Food Labeling and Standards Staff, Office of Nutrition, Labeling, and Dietary Supplements, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 5100 Paint Branch Parkway (HFS-820), College Park, MD 20740, Phone: +1 (240) 402-2371, Fax: +1 (301) 436-2636, .

    Alternate Delegate

    Jeffrey Canavan, Deputy Director, Labeling and Program Delivery Staff, Food Safety and Inspection Service, ( printed page 33239) U.S. Department of Agriculture, 1400 Independence Avenue SW., Stop 5273, Patriots Plaza 3, 8th Floor-161A, Washington, DC 20250, Phone: +1 (301) 504-0860, Fax: +1 (202) 245-4792, .

    General Principles (Host Government—France)

    Delegate Note: A member of the Steering Committee heads the delegation to meetings of the General Principles Committee.

    Methods of Analysis and Sampling (Host Government—Hungary)

    U.S. Delegate

    Gregory O. Noonan, Ph.D., Director, Division of Bioanalytical Chemistry, Division of Analytical Chemistry, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, Food and Drug Administration, 5100 Paint Branch Parkway, College Park, MD 20740, Phone: +1 (240) 402-2250, Fax: +1 (301) 436-2332, .

    Alternate Delegate

    Dr. Timothy Norden, Branch Chief, Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA), Technology & Science Division, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 10383 Ambassador Drive, Kansas City, MO, USA 64153, Phone: +1 (816) 891-0470, Fax: +1 (816) 891-8070, .

    Nutrition and Foods for Special Dietary Uses (Host Government—Germany)

    U.S. Delegate

    Paula R. Trumbo, Ph.D., Nutrition Programs, Office of Nutrition, Labeling and Dietary Supplements, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 5100 Paint Branch Parkway HFS-830, College Park, MD 20740, Phone: +1 (240) 402-2579, Fax: +1 (301) 436-1191, .

    Alternate Delegate

    Pamela R. Pehrsson, Ph.D., Research Leader, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Nutrient Data Laboratory, Room 105, Building 005, BARC-West, 110300 Baltimore Avenue, Beltsville, MD 20705, Phone: +1 (301) 504-0630, Fax: +1 (301) 504-0632, .

    Pesticide Residues (Host Government—China)

    U.S. Delegate

    Ms. Barbara Madden, Lead Biologist/Minor Use Team Leader, Office of Pesticide Programs, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Ariel Rios Building, 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20460, Phone: +1 (703) 305-6463, Fax: +1 (703) 305-6920, .

    Alternate Delegate

    Dr. Pat Basu, Senior Leader, Chemistry, Toxicology & Related Sciences, Office of Public Health Science, Food Safety and Inspection Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Patriots Plaza III, Room 9-205, 1400 Independence Ave. SW., Washington, DC 20250-3766, Phone: +1 (202) 690-6558, Fax: +1 (202) 690-2364, .

    Residues of Veterinary Drugs in Foods (Host Government—United States)

    U.S. Delegate

    Dr. Kevin Greenlees, Senior Advisor for Science & Policy, Office of New Animal Drug Evaluation, HFV-100, Center for Veterinary Medicine, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 7500 Standish Place, Rockville, MD 20855, Phone: +1 (240) 402-0638, Fax: +1 (240) 276-9538, .

    Alternate Delegate

    Dr. Charles Pixley, DVM, Ph.D., Director, Laboratory Quality Assurance Staff, Office of Public Health Science, Food Safety and Inspection Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 950 College Station Road, Athens, GA 30605, Phone: +1 (706) 546-3559, Fax: +1 (706) 546-3452, .

    Worldwide Commodity Codex Committees (Active)

    Fats and Oils (Host Government—Malaysia)

    U.S. Delegate

    Dr. Paul South, Acting Director, Division of Plant Products and Beverages, Office of Food Safety (HFS-317), Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 5100 Paint Branch Parkway, College Park, MD, USA 20740-3835, Phone: +1 (240) 402-1640, Fax: +1 (301) 436-2632, .

    Alternate Delegate

    Robert A. Moreau, Ph.D., Research Leader, Eastern Regional Research Center, Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 600 East Mermaid Lane, Wyndmoor, PA 19038, Phone: +1 (215) 233-6428, Fax: +1 (215) 233-6406, .

    Fish and Fishery Products (Host Government—Norway)

    U.S. Delegate

    Dr. William Jones, Director, Division of Seafood Safety, Office of Food Safety (HFS- 325), U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 5100 Paint Branch Parkway, College Park, MD 20740, Phone: +1 (240) 402-2300, Fax: +1 (301) 436-2601, .

    Alternate Delegate

    Vacant

    Fresh Fruits and Vegetables (Host Government—Mexico)

    U.S. Delegate

    Dorian LaFond, International Standards Coordinator, Fruit and Vegetables Program, Specialty Crop Inspection Division, Agricultural Marketing Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Stop 0247, South Agriculture Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250-0247, Phone: +1 (202) 690-4944, Fax: +1 (202) 690-1527, .

    Alternate Delegate

    Samir K. Assar, Ph.D., Director, Produce Safety Staff, Office of Food Safety, Food and Drug Administration, Phone: +1 (240) 402-1636, .

    Processed Fruits and Vegetables (Host Government—United States)

    U.S. Delegate

    Dorian LaFond, International Standards Coordinator, Fruit and Vegetables Program, Specialty Crop Inspection Division, Agricultural Marketing Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Stop 0247, South Agriculture Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250-0247, Phone: +1 (202) 690-4944, Fax: +1 (202) 690-1527, .

    Alternate Delegate

    Yinqing Ma, Ph.D., Consumer Safety Officer, Office of Food Safety (HFS-317), Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, U.S. Food and ( printed page 33240) Drug Administration, 5100 Paint Branch Parkway, College Park, MD 20740, Phone: +1 (240) 402-2479, Fax: +1 (301) 436-2632, .

    Spices and Culinary Herbs (Host Government—India)

    U.S. Delegate

    Dorian LaFond, International Standards Coordinator, Fruit and Vegetables Program, Specialty Crop Inspection Division, Agricultural Marketing Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Stop 0247, South Agriculture Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250-0247, Phone: +1 (202) 690-4944, Fax: +1 (202) 690-1527,

    Alternate Delegate

    George C. Ziobro, Ph.D., Dairy and Egg Branch, HFS-316, Division of Plant and Dairy Food Safety, Office of Food Safety, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, 5100 Paint Branch Parkway, College Park, MD 20740, Phone: +1 (240) 402-1965, .

    Worldwide Commodity Codex Committees (Adjourned) Cereals, Pulses and Legumes (Adjourned sine die) (Host Government—United States)

    U.S. Delegate

    Vacant

    Cocoa Products and Chocolate (Adjourned sine die) (Host Government—Switzerland)

    U.S. Delegate

    Michelle Smith, Ph.D., Food Technologist, Office of Plant and Dairy Foods and Beverages, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, U.S. Food and Drug Administration (HFS-306), Harvey W. Wiley Federal Building, 5100 Paint Branch Parkway, College Park, MD 20740-3835, Phone: +1 (240) 402-2024, Fax: +1 (301) 436-2651, .

    Meat Hygiene (Adjourned sine die) (Host Government—New Zealand)

    U.S. Delegate

    Vacant

    Milk and Milk Products (Host Government—New Zealand)

    U.S. Delegate

    Diane D. Lewis, Director, Grading and Standards Division, Dairy Programs, Agricultural Marketing Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 1400 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250, Phone: +1 (202) 690-0530, Fax: +1 (202) 720-2643, .

    Alternate Delegate

    John F. Sheehan, Director, Division of Dairy, Egg and Meat Food Safety, Office of Food Safety, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, U.S. Food and Drug Administration (HFS-3 15), Harvey W. Wiley Federal Building, 5100 Paint Branch Parkway, College Park, MD 20740, Phone: +1 (240) 402-1488, Fax: +1 (301) 436-2632, .

    Natural Mineral Waters (Adjourned sine die) (Host Government—Switzerland)

    U.S. Delegate

    Lauren Posnick Robin, Sc.D., Review Chemist, Office of Food Safety, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Harvey W. Wiley Federal Building, 5100 Paint Branch Parkway, College Park, MD 20740-3835, Phone: +1 (240) 402-1639, Fax: +1 (301) 436-2632, .

    Sugars (Host Government—United Kingdom)

    U.S. Delegate

    Vacant

    Vegetable Proteins (Adjourned sine die)

    U.S. Delegate

    Vacant

    Ad Hoc Intergovernmental Task Forces Animal Feeding (Host Government—Switzerland)

    U.S. Delegate

    Daniel G. McChesney, Ph.D., Director, Office of Surveillance & Compliance, Center for Veterinary Medicine, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 7529 Standish Place, Rockville, MD 20855, Phone: +1 (240) 453-6830, Fax: +1 (240) 453-6880, .

    Alternate Delegate

    Dr. Patty Bennett, Branch Chief, Risk Assessment Division, Office of Public Health Science, Food Safety and Inspection Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 901 Aerospace Center, Washington, DC 20250, Phone: +1 (202) 690-6189, .

    Antimicrobial Resistance (Host government—Republic of Korea)

    U.S. Delegate

    David G. White, M.S., Ph.D., Director, Office of Research, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Center for Veterinary Medicine, 8401 Muirkirk Road, Laurel, MD 20708, Phone: +1 (301) 210-4187, Fax: +1 (301) 210-4685, .

    Alternate Delegate

    Neena Anandaraman, DVM, MPH, Veterinary Medical Officer, Applied Epidemiology Division, Office of Public Health Science, Food Safety and Inspection Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Stop 3777, PP3, 9-241B, 1400 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250, Phone: +1 (202) 690-6429, Fax: +1 (202) 690-6364, .

    [FR Doc. 2015-14306 Filed 6-10-15; 8:45 am]

    BILLING CODE 3410-DM-P

    Legal Citation

    Federal Register Citation

    Use this for formal legal and research references to the published document.

    80 FR 33230

    Web Citation

    Suggested Web Citation

    Use this when citing the archival web version of the document.

    “International Standard-Setting Activities,” thefederalregister.org (June 11, 2015), https://thefederalregister.org/documents/2015-14306/international-standard-setting-activities.