IADSA launches media resource on global supplement rules

Launched last week, the video​ ​explains the significance of Codex Alimentarius, or "Food Code" that is overseen by the Codex Alimentarius Commission.

“I’d like to congratulate IADSA on the production of this short video and of the IADSA guide to relevant Codex texts that it references,” ​said Steve Wearne, vice-chair of the Codex Alimentarius Commission during IADSA’s ‘100 Minutes’ online member meeting.

“I can think of no better example of a Codex observer organisation taking a lead in helping us to deliver our strategic goal of increasing impact through the recognition and use of Codex standards.”​

What is the Codex Alimentarius?​

Codex Alimentarius is considered the international reference for food supplement legislation, where its legislature and policy are constantly being developed, modified and/or harmonised between global regions.

Its main intention is to protect consumer health and ensure global trade in food employ fair practices. This is enforced via the creation of food standards, codes of practice, guidelines and other recommendations.

Member countries put forward a committee that is responsible for the development of Codex standards and guidelines. These countries regularly review and provide feedback on Codex standards and associated texts at during the development process.

Increasing awareness ​

As an aid to understanding the process, the video discusses these Codex standards, which covers the rules impacting the food supplements sector, from health claims to additives and contaminants. The guide also highlights how, why and when consensus was reached.

“Codex Alimentarius is very important for consumers, policymakers and businesses,”​ adds Simon Pettman, IADSA’s executive director

“Our new video will help us to increase awareness of this and highlight how consideration of the wide range of Codex texts is crucial when it comes to formulating approaches to food supplement regulation.”​

IADSA’s guide is available to download at in English​​, French​​ and Spanish​​.