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Codex Alimentarius Commission: Membership & India's Role

Codex Alimentarius Commission: Membership & India's Role

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international relations

📖 Introduction

<h4>Understanding Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC) Membership</h4><p>The <strong>Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC)</strong> is a crucial international body responsible for setting global food standards. Its membership is broad, reflecting a collective commitment to food safety and fair practices in the food trade.</p><div class='info-box'><p>Currently, the <strong>Codex Alimentarius Commission</strong> comprises <strong>189 Codex Members</strong>. This significant number includes <strong>188 Member Countries</strong> and the <strong>European Union (EU)</strong> as a distinct member entity.</p></div><p>This extensive membership ensures that a wide range of national perspectives and scientific expertise contribute to the development of internationally recognized food standards.</p><h4>India's Engagement with the CAC</h4><p><strong>India</strong> has been an active and long-standing member of the <strong>Codex Alimentarius Commission</strong>. Its participation underscores India's commitment to aligning its national food standards with global best practices and ensuring the safety of its food supply.</p><div class='info-box'><p><strong>India</strong> officially became a member of the <strong>Codex Alimentarius</strong> in <strong>1964</strong>. This early adoption highlights India's proactive approach to international cooperation in food regulation.</p></div><div class='exam-tip-box'><p>Understanding the <strong>CAC's membership structure</strong> and <strong>India's joining year (1964)</strong> is vital for questions on international organizations, food security, and India's role in global governance in <strong>UPSC Mains GS-II</strong> and <strong>GS-III</strong>.</p></div>
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💡 Key Takeaways

  • The Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC) has 189 members: 188 countries and the European Union.
  • India became a member of the Codex Alimentarius in 1964, demonstrating early commitment.
  • CAC sets global food standards to protect consumer health and ensure fair practices in food trade.
  • Membership facilitates global food safety harmonization and reduces technical barriers to trade.
  • India's participation is crucial for its food safety regulations and international trade relations.

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📚 Reference Sources

Official website of the Codex Alimentarius Commission (www.fao.org/fao-who-codexalimentarius/en/)
Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) publications