Position Paper
EXTENSION OF THE LIFE-SPAN OF THE AD HOC INTERGOVERNMENTAL TASK
FORCE ON FOODS DERIVED FROM BIOTECHNOLOGY
October, 2000
The Ad Hoc Intergovernmental Task Force on Foods Derived from Biotechnology
was established two years ago in response to a perceived need to
create a consistent and scientifically sound framework for the ongoing
efforts within the CCFL to develop labeling standards for these
products.
The International Council of Grocery Manufacturers Associations
(ICGMA) believes that while the efforts of the Task Force, and the
excellent work of Japan in shepherding its work, are deserving of
commendation, we should be extremely cautious of any efforts to
extend the life span of this body beyond its originally established
term of four years.
Codex Alimentarius should terminate those task forces that live
on beyond their usefulness. In this particular case, there is a
real risk that the Task Force will not contribute to resolution
of outstanding scientific questions, but will become a hindrance
as its agenda burgeons and new side-issues are raised to add to
the lengthening list of real problems not yet resolved. The continued
efforts to inject discussion of traceability in the Ad Hoc Task
Force illuminate this concern vividly, and demonstrate the need
for disciplined, focused and circumscribed work, with a defined
objective and end point.
Therefore, the Ad Hoc Intergovernmental Task Force on Foods Derived
from Biotechnology should resolve its work agenda in the time frame
assigned to the Task Force at its establishment.
The International Council of Grocery Manufacturers Associations
is an international non-governmental organization (NGO) officially
recognized by the Codex Alimentarius. ICGMA represents the interests
of national and regional associations representing all sectors of
the grocery industry and serves to facilitate harmonization of standards
and policies concerned with health, safety, packaging, labeling,
advertising and marketing of foods, beverages and other grocery
products.
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