Codex Introduces First-Ever International Standard for Fresh Dates to Boost Global Trade and Quality Assurance
14 November 2025, Rome: After a decade of work and collaboration among date-producing countries, the Codex Alimentarius Commission has adopted the first international Standard for Fresh Dates, marking a historic milestone for the rapidly expanding global date industry.
Global Benchmarks for Quality and Fair Trade
The new standard establishes minimum quality, food safety, and trade requirements, ensuring that consumers worldwide receive uniformly high-quality dates. It covers:
- Quality categories based on size, maturity, colour and shape
- Uniformity requirements
- Packaging and labelling specifications
- Contaminant limits and hygiene provisions
With demand for dates rising steadily in both traditional and emerging markets, the standard is expected to streamline global trade and enhance consumer confidence.
Other Key Codex Decisions from Session 48
New Lead Limits for Spices & Herbs
Codex approved MLs of 2.5 mg/kg for spices and 2.0 mg/kg for dried culinary herbs, addressing lead contamination risks.
Revised Aflatoxin Code for Peanuts
The updated CoP includes new agricultural, processing and feed-related measures to reduce aflatoxin contamination.
Major Additive Updates under GSFA
Over 500 GSFA provisions were reviewed, leading to new approvals and revocations of certain colour additives.
Guidelines on Pesticide Reference Material Stability
A new scientific framework now supports extended laboratory use of pesticide reference materials where purity remains acceptable.
Regional Standard for Castilla Lulo
Codex adopted a regional standard for the Andean fruit Castilla lulo, improving quality and safety for regional markets.
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