What is the correct sequence in which a Codex standard is developed?

                      I.        Proposal

                    II.        Discussion paper

                   III.        Getting started

                  IV.        Elaboration of standards

Solution

A national government or a subsidiary committee of the Commission usually makes the proposal for a standard to be developed. They then prepare a discussion paper that outlines what the proposed standard is expected to achieve, and then a project document that indicates the time frame for the work and its relative priority. Getting started – The Commission reviews the project document and decides whether the standard should be developed as proposed. Elaboration of the standard – The preparation of a proposed draft standard is arranged by the Commission Secretariat and circulated to member governments, observer organizations and other Codex committees for two rounds of comments and special advice. Conclusion – Standards can take several years to develop. Once adopted by the Commission, a Codex standard is added to the Codex Alimentarius and published here on the web site.