Codex committee to discuss quality standards for spices

Experts from over 36 countries and three International observation organisations will deliberate on setting up quality standards for 10 spices at the Codex Committee on Spices and Culinary Herbs (CCSCH) to be held in Goa from September 14 to 18.
The 'Codex Standards' for the spices is being discussed at the second session of CCSCH under Codex Alimentraius Commission (CAC), Rome, to ensure fair trade practices and better returns to farmers, according to a release.
While, India has submitted proposals to set up standards for Dried Chilli, Ginger and Garlic, Egypt has submitted proposal for Basil and Coriander, Indonesia for Nutmeg, Nigeria for Cloves and Ginger, Iran for Saffron and Argentina for Paprika, it said.

"The initiative of India and Spices Board through CCSCH are aimed at harmonising global standards for Spices and culinary herbs" A Jayathilak IAS, Co-coordinator for CCSCH, said.
"Codex standards ensure common quality standards for spices among spices exporting countries, thus helping to eliminate potential distortion in exports due to diverse food quality legislations by different countries," he said.
The Electronic Work Group constituted in the first session of CCSCH will also deliberate a report on the grouping of spices and standards of BWG Pepper, Cumin, Thyme and Oregano.
Nearly 120 delegates from over 36 countries will attend the CCSCH, which is being hosted by the Spices Board on behalf of India.

The function will be inaugurated by Ashish Bahuguna, the Chairman of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India on September 14, 2015.