Codex Alimentarius for QA and Regulatory Teams (Practical Guides)
Codex Alimentarius is a global reference for food standards, food hygiene, and fair trade practices. If you work in food safety, quality assurance, or regulation, Codex texts can help you write clearer requirements, align controls, and explain decisions.
This page brings together my practical Codex guides in one place. If you are new to Codex, start with the main guide first.
Start here (Codex basics)
Use these pages to understand what Codex is, what it publishes, and how to use Codex texts correctly.
- Codex Standards vs Guidelines vs Codes of Practice (With Real Examples) (Coming soon)
- Is Codex Alimentarius Law? What “Voluntary” Really Means (Coming soon)
- How to Find Codex Standards Online (Fast Method + What to Download) (Coming soon)
- How to Read a Codex Standard (What Each Section Means) (Coming soon)
Build and improve your food safety program (QA practical)
These guides focus on applying Codex to real food safety controls, documentation, and verification.
- Codex Codes of Practice: Turn Guidance Into Controls and SOPs (Coming soon)
- Codex and HACCP: How They Connect (and Common Misunderstandings) (Coming soon)
- Codex Microbiological Criteria: What They Are and How to Apply Them (Coming soon)
Specs, suppliers, and audits (operational compliance)
Use these resources to translate Codex into specs, supplier requirements, and audit questions.
- Use Codex to Write Product Specifications (QA Template Approach) (Coming soon)
- Using Codex in Supplier Approval and Supplier Audits (Checklist) (Coming soon)
Policy, trade, and risk (regulatory strength)
These guides explain how Codex connects to risk analysis, decision-making, and trade frameworks.
- Codex Risk Analysis Explained (Risk Assessment vs Risk Management vs Risk Communication) (Coming soon)
- Codex and the WTO: SPS vs TBT Explained for Food Compliance Teams (Coming soon)
- Codex Commission and Committees Explained (and How to Participate) (Coming soon)
Frequently asked questions (Codex basics)
Is Codex Alimentarius legally binding?
Codex texts are international standards and guidance. By themselves, they are not national law. However, many countries use Codex as a reference when writing regulations, setting inspection expectations, or resolving trade questions. In practice, Codex often influences what regulators and buyers expect.
Who writes Codex standards?
Codex standards are developed by member countries through the Codex Alimentarius Commission and its committees, with support from FAO and WHO. Draft texts are discussed, revised, and adopted through formal procedures.
What is the difference between a Codex standard and a code of practice?
A Codex standard usually sets agreed requirements for foods (for example, identity, composition, labeling). A code of practice focuses on practical control measures (for example, hygiene and hazard control) that help prevent food safety problems.
How do I find the latest version of a Codex text?
The safest approach is to use the official Codex website and confirm the document status and version. Avoid relying on old PDFs saved by third parties. (I also share a quick method on this page: How to Find Codex Standards Online.)
Why does Codex matter for international trade?
Codex provides a shared reference point between countries. This helps reduce confusion about expectations, supports fair practices, and can strengthen the technical basis for food safety measures used in trade.
How can industry or experts participate in Codex work?
Participation usually happens through national Codex Contact Points, national committees, and observer organizations. Depending on your role, you may be able to submit comments on draft texts or support your country’s delegation with technical input.
Want help applying Codex in your work?
If you need support using Codex to align policies, strengthen inspection tools, improve HACCP programs, or set supplier expectations, you can reach out here:
How to use this page
Bookmark this hub page and check back as new guides are published. Each time a new article is posted, I will link it here so you can follow the full Codex series from start to finish.