The Codex Alimentarius is the international standard / Food Code established by the Codex Alimentarius Commission and is recognized by:
- the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO),
- the World Health Organization (WHO),
- international markets and regulatory frameworks.
1. Good Hygiene Practices (GHPs)
They cover:
- primary production
- facilities and equipment
- cleaning – disinfection – pest control
- personal hygiene
- operational management
- transportation
2. HACCP System & Application Guidelines
- 7 HACCP principles
- 12 steps of implementation
- Critical Control Points (CCPs)
- tools and flow diagrams
✔ Codex Alimentarius Process Management Team – FBOs (Food Business Operators)
For example, hazard control, implementation of GHPs, and application of the HACCP system.
✔ Personal Hygiene
Detailed guidelines for proper personal hygiene practices.
✔ Cleaning – Disinfection
Procedures with specific steps for the implementation and maintenance of effective cleaning and disinfection processes.
✔ Operational Control
Time–temperature limits, prevention of cross-contamination, and allergen management.
✔ HACCP
Implementation of the HACCP system (7 principles).
The Codex Alimentarius applies to the entire food chain, including:
- Producers and processors of food and feed
- Food and beverage industries
- Warehouses, distribution centers, and transport companies
- Food service units, catering, and mass catering operations
- Packaging materials companies and support service providers
- Laboratories, cleaning companies, and equipment suppliers
- Ensuring the production of safe food,
- Compliance with applicable legal and regulatory requirements governing the safety of produced products,
- Readiness to respond to inspections by authorities, customers, etc.,
- Improvement of productivity and internal processes,
- Added value to offered products/services and enhanced credibility with customers and consumers,
- Competitive advantage in the market through the ability to consistently provide safe food, products, and services,
- Prerequisite for cooperation with major retail chains and export markets,
- Reduction of operational risks and costs arising from recalls or failures.
