In 2018, important global discussions were taking place regarding the standards for nutmeg and clove, 2 of Grenada’s major export spices.
These discussions were led by the United Nations Codex Alimentarius Commission, one of the world’s key authorities on food safety. The proposed changes had the potential to significantly affect Grenada’s ability to trade these products internationally.
In response, a team of Grenadian experts, the National Codex Committee (NCC), came together, reviewed the evidence, and developed a national position. Their timely and coordinated efforts led to revisions being made to the proposed standards, ensuring that no new barriers to trade were created.
So, what exactly is Codex Alimentarius?
The Codex Alimentarius, which means “Food Code” in Latin, is a set of internationally recognised food standards, guidelines, and codes of practice developed by the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC), an initiative of the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and the World Health Organisation (WHO). Its goal is to protect consumer health and promote fair practices in food trade.
To date, Grenada has adopted 20 Codex standards as national standards. These include specifications for products such as jams, jellies, marmalades, honey, and also cover essential food safety systems like the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) guidelines. Grenada participates in Codex activities through the National Codex Committee.
Who makes up the National Codex Committee?
The NCC is currently chaired by Thaddeus Peters, Chief Agricultural Officer at the Ministry of Agriculture and Lands, Forestry, Marine Resources and Cooperatives, with Kenneth Hazzard, Chief Environmental Health Officer at the Ministry of Health, Wellness & Religious Affairs, serving as Vice-Chair. The committee includes representatives from various government ministries and agencies, such as the Grenada Food and Nutrition Council, the Produce Chemist Laboratory, the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Trade & Export Development, the Grenada Co-operative Nutmeg Association, and the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture. Private sector stakeholders such as Minor Spices, Spice Isle Fish House, Glenelg, and GENESIS are also involved. The committee meets biannually and holds emergency sessions when necessary. All communications with the Codex Alimentarius Commission are coordinated through the National Codex Contact Point, located within the Standardisation Division at the Grenada Bureau of Standards.
How are the NCC, Codex Alimentarius, and food safety connected?
These 3 elements are connected through science-based decision-making. The Codex Alimentarius provides the international standards and scientific guidance, while the NCC ensures that Grenada’s food safety policies are aligned with these standards. This connection helps protect public health, ensures our food is safe, and supports fair trade practices.
As we observe World Food Safety Day (WFSD) on 7 June 2025, under the theme “Food Safety: Science in Action,” it is an ideal moment to highlight the important role played by the National Codex Committee in upholding food safety and supporting Grenada’s participation in the global food system.
The National Codex Committee welcomes and supports this year’s WFSD initiative spearheaded by the Environmental Health Department of the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Religious Affairs.
On 6 June, there will be a showcase featuring contributions from various schools at Spiceland Mall in Grand Anse, including three-dimensional models of different foodborne illness agents and their impacts on human health.
National Codex Committee
