The 44th session of the Codex Alimentarius Com­mittee on Methods of Analysis and Sampling (CCMAS44) successfully addressed all topics on its agenda. CCMAS44 endorsed methods of analysis from commodity standards and recommended ap­proval of others e.g., on chocolate, chocolate prod­ucts and other cocoa-based products, fruits juices and nectars, fish products, follow-up formulas, food grade salt. CCMAS44 held intense discussions on methods of analysis for the protein content in quinoa and on the method for the determination of the moisture content in whey powder. CCMAS44 agreed also to establish an expert group under the auspice of the IFU to inform the work on the methods pro­posed for fruit juices and nectars. CCMAS44 finally agreed on rounded numeric performance criteria for the determination of nitrate and nitrite ions in food matrices. CCMAS44 decided also to start working on methods for the identity of “sugars and honey”. It also endorsed the method discussed during the last CCNFSDU44 meeting on dietary fiber with a further question back to CCNFSDU with a proposed amend­ment to a more comprehensive footnote. CCMAS44 adopted a comprehensively amended information document about sampling plans (with an entire new part 3 on Bayesian sampling plans) to inform the im­plementation of the current guidelines on sampling. CCMAS44 advanced the work on a consolidated list of methods for the presence of allergens that would be subject to another intersessional work. CCMAS44 re-established EWGs (including one to advance the harmonization of names for principles in the general standard of methods of analysis) and agreed to con­vene a working group in person immediately prior its CCMAS45 session (2026) [ii].

See more information available about CCMAS44 working documents quoted in this article [iii], as well as in the official report of the CCMAS44 meeting [iv]. Codex standards, guidelines, codes of practices and related miscellaneous texts quoted in this article are readily and freely available [v].

ENDORSEMENT OF METHODS OF ANALYSIS AND SAMPLING AND REVIEW OF METHODS INCLUDED IN THE GENERAL STANDARD FOR METHODS OF ANALYSIS (CXS 234, 2024 version)

Methods applicable cocoa products and chocolate; fish and fishery products; foods for special dietary uses; fruit juices and nectars; milk and milk products; and miscellaneous products such as dried meat and food grade salt

CCMAS44 agreed to (i) endorse all the methods and amended methods resulting from the work of pre-ses­sion VWG and an in-Session WG (IWG as summa­rized in CCMAS44’s CRD02 Rev.1 working docu­ment); (ii) revoke and retype the methods, as included in Appendix II of CCMAS44 report); (iii) inform the CCNFSDU that the methods of analysis submitted by it to CCMAS were forwarded for adoption by CAC48 and all the relevant methods of analysis be revoked consequentially. CCMAS44 agreed to re-establish its EWG on methods chaired by Canada (and not customarily by Australia), for further consideration on (a) cocoa products and chocolate; (b) foods for special dietary uses; and (c) fruit juices and nectars. CCMAS44 praised the work of Dr Richard Coghlan (Australia), as the outgoing chair of the EWG, VWG and IWG. CCMAS44 also agreed to re-establish a Physical Working Group (PWG) on methods endorse­ment led by the USA and co-led by Hungary, Japan and Uruguay to meet immediately prior to CCMAS45, to (a) consider all methods of analysis and sampling submitted by Codex Committees for endorsement, (b) the outcomes of the work of the EWGs on meth­ods including retyping of the ISO 1871 method for determining protein in quinoa (see further below); the proposals on the workable packages on chocolate and cocoa-based products as well as on sugars and honey, and any other matters referred by other Codex Com­mittees or submitted by Members and Observers.

CCMAS44 concluded favorably its work on methods applicable to (a) cocoa products and chocolate; (b) fish and fishery products; (c) foods for special dietary uses; (d) fruit juices and nectars; (e) milk and milk prod­ucts; and (f) miscellaneous products such as dried meat and food grade salt. CCMAS44 did not propose changes to existing methods already included in CXS 234 applicable to (a) cereals, pulses and legumes and derived products; (b) fruit juices and nectars; (c) milk and milk products; and (d) miscellaneous prod­ucts (e.g., dried meat and food grade salt). CCMAS44 also revoked methods as consequential changes from other adopted for the same standardized food [vi].

In order to advance the technical discussions on the remaining work package of methods in fruit juices and nectars, CCMAS44 agreed to convene an expert group under the auspices of the International Fruit and Vegetable Juices and Nectars Association (IFU) to (a) determine the ranges of parameters relevant for quality and authenticity; (b) determine the range of measurements or maximum LOD; (c) evaluate the list of endorsed methods included in CXS 234 and those listed in the commodity standard CXS 247 (2024 version) ; (d) determine/consider if the presently en­dorsed methods are still appropriate and “fit-for-pur­pose” to control the “quality and authenticity” of fruit juices; (e) determine/consider if any of the presently endorsed methods should be revoked and eliminated from CXS 234 and CXS 247; (f) assess whether any new method(s) could be considered by the CCMAS endorsement working group in the future, for ad­dition to CXS 234 for the general provision of juice “quality and authenticity”; and (g) collate relevant validation data for any new procedures that CCMAS could consider in the future. In particular, the expert group shall identify clearly which methods should be maintained in CXS 234, revoked, or replaced. Codex Members were invited in contributing to this work by contacting directly IFU and nominate nationally rele­vant fruit juice experts to participate eventually to the work of that IFU-led expert group, in their individual capacity. CCMAS44 praised the coordinating work ensured by Dr David Hammond [vii] at IFU.

With regards the work package on methods for choc­olate and chocolate products and other cocoa-based products, CCMAS44 agreed to re-establish an EWG chaired by Serbia and co-chaired by USA to continue reviewing the relevant methods listed. With regards to the work package of relevant methods for sugars and honey, CCMAS44 agreed to establish an EWG chaired by Uruguay to review these methods applicable to sugars and honey. Both EWGs should submit their report sufficiently in advance to CCMAS45.

As examples of methods endorsed, CCMAS44 agreed to retain the method for determination of amino acid nitrogen in fish sauce, AOAC 920.04 and AOAC 920.03, in CXS 234. CCMAS44 endorsed AOAC 935.47 and AOAC 937.09B as Type III methods. CCMAS44 agreed to transfer the method for the determination of sodium chloride in food grade salt as described in the Standard for food grade salt (CXS 150) with editorial amendments to CXS 234. CCMAS44 also agreed with an update to the hyperlink in the footnote referencing the method for iodine in food grade salt in CXS 234. In addition, CCMAS44 agreed to transfer the related sampling plan to CXS 234. CCMAS44 noted that the sampling plan was currently incompatible with the provision for sodium chloride and would require further review and agreed that such review could be taken up later under the work on the review of sampling plans and inform CCFA accordingly. CCMAS44 also noted the editorial amendment to the principle for the example methods AOAC 2015.06 / ISO 21424 |IDF 243 that meet the numeric performance criteria for copper in milk fat products and agreed to the removal of ISO 5738 | IDF 76 and AOAC 960.40 as example methods. All relevant commodity committees will be informed accordingly.

CCMAS44 further requested CCNFSDU to consid­er (a) whether it would be appropriate to develop numeric performance criteria (NPC) for methods of analysis for Type II and Type III methods; or (b) develop additional methods for follow-up formula to align with those for infant formula for common provisions (see Part 3.2 of Appendix II of CCMAS44 report). With regard to the recommendation for CCNFSDU to consider developing NPC, the chair of the VWG clarified that CCMAS’s preference was for committees to consider this approach. CCMAS44 noted that this approach would provide flexibility for countries to choose methods that meet these criteria. This approach was in accordance with the Procedural Manual that preference should be given to set NPC. CCMAS44 further agreed that the name and format for principles for the corresponding methods for infant formula included in CXS 234 would not be aligned with those agreed for follow-up formula at this stage pending ongoing discussion on the harmo­nization of names and format for principles. It was noted that CCNFSDU was also in the process of re­viewing all methods for provisions in standards under their purview to assess their fitness-for-purpose and to identify additional/replacement methods, or other corrections.

Dietary fibre reference in Table 6 of CXS 234 “Methods of analysis for dietary fibre: Guidelines for use of nutrition and health claims (CXG 23, 2013 version): Tables of conditions for claims”

CCMAS44 endorsed the methods proposed by the outcome of the EWG and VWG (as presented in CCMAS44 CRD02 Rev.1 working document), to­gether with the footnote proposed by CCNFSDU44 which reads “Isolated, purified, and/or synthetic fibres captured by AOAC 2022.01/ICC Standard 191/AACC 32-61.01 that do not meet the Codex definition of di­etary fibre in the Guidelines on nutrition labelling (CXG 2-1985) should be subtracted from the final measure­ment, where deemed appropriate by competent author­ities.” CCMAS44 also agreed to request CCNFSDU to clarify whether the footnote was only applicable to the methods AOAC 2022.01/AACC 32-61.01/ICC Stan­dard No. 191. If not, the footnote should then apply to all methods for dietary fibers included in Table 6 of CXS 234, or a subset of these methods listed in that Table 6. Should CCNFSDU agrees, then CCMAS would delete the footnote applied only to AOAC 2022.01/AACC 32-61.01/ICC Standard No. 191.

CCNFSDU was further asked to consider a proposed amendment to the current footnote 2 included in Table 6 of CXS 234. Such proposed amendment would address the concerns raised that the footnote forwarded by CCNFSDU should be consistently applied to all methods in CXS 234, Table 6. Should CCNFSDU agree to amend footnote two, then the footnote forwarded by CCNFSDU to accompany AOAC 2022.01/AACC 32.61.01/ICC Standard No. 191 could then be deleted. The recommended addi­tional phrase to existing footnote 2 is shown in bold as follows: « Two issues are left for national authorities: to include monomeric units 3-9 and which isolated or synthetic compounds have physiological benefit. (Refer to the Guidelines on nutrition labelling (CXG 2-1985)). Isolated, purified, and/or synthetic fibres captured by the analysis that do not meet the Codex definition of dietary fibre in CXG 2-1985 should be subtracted from the final measurement, where deemed appropri­ate by competent authorities. »

SPECIFIC DISCUSSIONS ON SOME METHODS

Determination of the protein content in quinoa prod­ucts (conforming to CXS 333, 2020 version)

This agenda was very much disputed. CCMAS44 however agreed to retain the method for determining protein in quinoa already in CXS 234 as a Type IV method (method ISO 1871), noting the reservation of Peru. CCMAS44 requested the re-established PWG on endorsement to consider retyping of ISO 1871 meth­od for determining protein in quinoa based on the information provided in CCMAS44’s CRD19, refer­ring to a comprehensive comparative analytical work performed by several national metrological institutes based in Latin America in this matter. Brazil also suggested an extension of Extension of the ISO 20483 method to quinoa offered as an alternative method. It was suggested that the necessary validation studies could be performed and discussed again within ISO to determine if this method could be extended from cereals and pulses to a pseudocereal such as quinoa. ISO indicated that a decision to extend ISO 20483 to quinoa should be subject to a formal request accord­ing to ISO procedures. In that regard, it was also noted that ISO might even end up validating a dedicated method (to Quinoa) instead of extending the existing ISO 20483 to Quinoa [viii].

Determination of the moisture content in whey powders (conforming to CXS 289, 2022 version)

CCMAS44 agreed to forward the 102NP method with the footnote as amended in paragraph 41 to CAC48 for adoption as a Type IV method (Appendix II, Part 1.5), for whey powder, on an exceptional basis, in line with Section 3.9 (v) of the information document “Comprehensive guidance for the process of submission, consideration and endorsement of methods for inclusion in CXS 234” and to make the consequential amend­ments to Appendix XI of CXS 234 (2024 version).

Determination of the particle size of milling products using sieve analysis for use on edible cassava flour and gari

CCMAS44 acknowledged that no amendment to CXS 234 was necessary for the moment, despite some technical elements presented in CCMAS44’s CRD9 document by the International Association for Cereal Science and Technology (ICC) about the revision of ICC Recommendation N. 207, to render it applicable to edible cassava flour and to gari (in particular to include appropriate sieve sizes). CCMAS noted that the ICC revision work was in its final approval stage at ICC level. It was recalled that the current ICC Rec­ommendation N. 207 had already been endorsed by CCMAS43.

SAMPLING PLANS

Information document to the General guidelines on sampling (CXG 50, 2023 version) – e-book with sampling plans applications

CCMAS44 considered the outcome of an inter-ses­sional EWG chaired by New Zealand and co-chaired by Germany to develop an information document on how implementing the revised Codex Alimenta-rius General guidelines on sampling (CXG 50, 2023 version). Such information document should not be considered as an official Codex text, but simply there to inform countries and food business operators for internal use by CCMAS and other Codex commodity committees. CCMAS44 agreed to publish the revised information document (as presenting in CCMAS44 report’s Appendix IV) and inform Codex committees of the publication of this document. It also agreed to remove the current information document titled “Practical examples of sampling plans” from the Codex website. Finally, it was noted that as other applications (Apps) were being developed, they would be forward­ed to the Codex Secretariat for inclusion to the list of applications in the information document and that CCMAS would be informed accordingly. Other sup­porting resources, such as webinars, would be made available on the CCMAS webpage as well. The agreed information document should also be considered a living document, meaning CCMAS could update it when needed and where warranted [ix].

Review of sampling plans in the general standard for methods of analysis (CXS 234, 2024 version) and de­velopment of sampling plans for lots consisting of bulk material/heterogenous lots, including for mycotoxins

CCMAS44 agreed to continue developing the vari­ous discussion papers on (a) the review of sampling plans in CXS 234, particularly the various approaches to placing the sampling plans in the standard(s), the format and content of the presentation of sampling plans, and the responsibility for assessing the param­eters that determine the selection of the appropriate sampling plan for a given commodity/provision combination; and (b) the development of sampling plans for bulk materials/heterogenous lots, including mycotoxins, including proposed sampling plans for consideration by CCMAS45, and to inform CCCF of this decision. CCMAS44 also noted that work on sampling plans for bulk materials/heterogenous lots, including for mycotoxins, should be conducted in close collaboration with CCCF; and noted the pos­sible need for CCMAS to provide support to com­modity committees in their review of sampling plans. CCMAS44 agreed to re-establish an EWG, chaired by New Zealand and co-chaired by Germany to advance the revisions of these discussion papers and prepare a dedicated discussion paper on sampling plans for bulk materials/heterogenous lots, including for mycotoxins, to be discussed by CCMAS45.

OTHER ASPECTS

Numeric performance criteria for the determination of nitrate and nitrite ions in food matrices

CCMAS44 considered the outcome of an intersessional EWG work led by Australia and co-chaired by the USA, including discussions held by the in session VWG. CCMAS44 agreed with the Numeric Perfor­mance Criteria (NPC) elaborated (and rounded up during the session) for nitrate and nitrite in three food matrices (i.e., ripened cheeses; processed comminuted meat, poultry, and game products; and, heat-treated processed meat, poultry, and game products in whole pieces of cuts) and agreed to forward these NPC back to CCFA for information. Initial CCFA request was for CCMAS to establish NPC for methods of analysis in these specified food matrices; provide information on available analytical methods suitable for both the adopted MLs and the lowest proposed residue levels; and clarify whether the methods measured nitrate and nitrite ions separately or in combination [x].

Methods of analysis for precautionary allergen labelling

CCMAS44 considered the outcome of an EWG led by the USA and its prior consideration by the IWG. Due to several factors related to the presentation of the list of methods, the need for further consideration, and new method validation guidelines, CCMAS44 agreed to re-establish an EWG chaired by USA and co-chaired by UK to finalize the review of the methods presented at CCMAS 44 against the recently updated CEN and AOAC validation guidelines and perfor­mance requirements [xi] and simplify the presentation of the methods and their validation status. CCMAS44 tasked the new EWG to draft a response to CCFL49 for consideration by CCMAS45. CCMAS44 confirmed that the EWG would not have to address the second question from CCFL regarding sampling plans.

Nitrogen to protein conversion factors for commodi­ties approved by Codex Commodity Committees

CCMAS agreed to forward the list of Nitrogen to Protein conversion factors as amended, for approval by CAC48 and future inclusion as an Annex to the General Standard on Methods of Analysis (CXS 234), while noting some inconsistencies with these conver­sion factors especially for various soy products, and it suggested that these factors should be reviewed in the future. CCMAS44 noted that these factors would need to be reviewed by the relevant Codex Commodity Committees to ensure further consistency [xii].

Harmonization of names and format for principles identified in CXS 234, 2024 version

CCMAS44 considered the outcome of an intersessional EWG work led by Brazil and Chile. Purpose of this work was to (i) establish a centralized database consolidating all methods relevant to CCMAS; (ii) harmonize terminology for analytical methods across Codex standards; and (iii) develop a publicly accessible database on methods of analysis and sam­pling for inclusion on the Codex website. The work of the EWG to develop harmonized terminology for analytical methods, format for principles and provi­sion names was thus to support the development of such a structured database. CCMAS44 significantly updated the document but was unable to address all the issues. CCMAS44 agreed to re-establish the EWG, led by Brazil and co-led by Chile to further revise the “Harmonization of Names for Principles in CXS 234-1999”, including its annexes A, B, and C, using the text included in CCMAS44 report Appendix VI as its working basis, with the aim of ensuring that the principles in CXS 234 are properly included and con­tinue discussions on Annex D, focusing on separating the provisions into three distinct groups (editorial or no-change provisions, provisions linked to active committees, provisions linked to inactive committees) and making corresponding recommendations [xiii].

Endnotes

[i] Food Production Systems Engineer; Food Standards, Safety and Regulatory Specialist; Counsellor at Keller and Heckman LLP Brussels office

[ii] CCMAS is the specialised body of the Codex Alimen-tarius Commission Food Standard Program dealing with the most complex scientific and technical matters relating to (a) methods of analysis (i.e., analytical chemistry); (b) sampling plans (i.e., statistical analy­sis) other than those covered by specialised horizontal committees, and (c) any other issues related to these. In addition, CCMAS endorses the methods proposed by Codex Committees developing commodity and food standards. As such, CCMAS outputs are key to help countries and food business operators in performing their conformity assessment to existing Codex food standards, hence ensuring food safety and authenticity of such standardized foods, helping minimizing food fraud, and guaranteeing a better traceability and fair practices in international trade of these food supplies.

CCMAS44 was held virtually through five 3-hour daily sessions from May 5 to 8, 2025 and was preceded by a pre-session virtual working group (VWG) on “En­dorsement”, held on April 29 and 30, 2025 and which prepared decisions for CCMAS44 on nearly all agenda items (item 2, 3, 4, 5, 7 and 8). The PWG also contin­ued its work during part of the plenary as an in-session working group (IWG). CCMAS44 adopted its draft re­port virtually on May 14, 2025. CCMAS44 was attend­ed by 74 Member countries, one Member organization and 21 Observer organizations. The session was chaired by Dr Attila Nagy, Director, National Food Chain Safe­ty Office (NFCSO) and co-chaired by Dr Zsuzsa Farkas, Head of Department, Department of Digital Food Sci­ence, University of Veterinary Medicine, Budapest. The next CCMAS meeting (CCMAS45) was tentatively scheduled from 9 to 13 March 2026, to be held in person in Budapest (Hungary) and be preceded by the PWG on “Endorsement” and a regular meeting of the con­tact group of inter-agencies developing and validating methods of analysis and sampling (i.e., composed of ISO, IDF, AOAC International, FOSFA International, USP-Food Chemical Codex, AACC, ICC, AAFCO, NMKL, ICUMSA, and the international association MoniQA).

[iii] See https://www.fao.org/fao-who-codexalimentarius/ meetings/detail/en/?meeting=CCMAS&session=44&

[iv] See https://www.fao.org/fao-who-codexalimentarius/ meetings/en/

[v] See https://www.fao.org/fao-who-codexalimentarius/ codex-texts/en/

[vi] Adopted methods — Cocoa products and chocolate:  Updated methods on fat-free cocoa solids, fat-free milk solids (determined as milk protein), Total Fat (on a dry basis), Cocoa shell (determined as spiral vessel count), cocoa shell (determined as stone cell count). Fish and  fishery products (Quick Frozen Fish Sticks (Fish Fin­gers), Fish Portions and Fish Fillets – Breaded or in Bat­ter – CXS 166 (2017 version)): Fish content (declara­tion) – Nitrogen, Moisture, Total Fat, Ash. Performance criteria for the methods for sodium chloride and for salt determined as chloride expressed as sodium chloride for boiled dried salted anchovies; fish sauce; salted Atlantic herring and salted sprat; salted fish and dried salted fish of Gadidae family of fishes; Sturgeon caviar. Foods for  special dietary uses: Follow up formulas – Vitamin A palmitate (retinyl palmitate), Vitamin A acetate (retinyl acetate), Vitamin A (two AOAC methods), Vitamin E, Vitamin D, Thiamine, Riboflavin, Niacin, Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, Pantothenic acid, Folic acid, Vitamin C, Biotin, Iron, Calcium, Phosphorous, Magnesium, Sodi­um, Chloride, Potassium, Manganese, Iodine, Selenium, Copper, Zinc, Total Nucleotides, Choline, Myo-innosi-tol, L-carnitine, Total amino acids (excluding taurine and tryptophan) and Tryptophan both for some selected uses specified in CXS 156 (2023 version), Total fatty ac­ids, Crude Protein, Folic acid (addition of ISO 20631). All Foods: content of insoluble and soluble dietary fibres of higher and lower molecular weight (applicable in food that may, or may not, contain resistant starches (AOAC 2022.01/AACC 32-61.01/ICC Standard n° 191 as type I method) with note relating to the subtraction rule resulting from Codex definition of dietary fiber as deemed appropriate by the competent authority. Fruit juices and nectars: L-Ascorbic acid (4 methods), Citric acid (all uses), High Fructose Corn Syrup and Hydrolyzed Inulin Syrup (in apple juices as permitted ingredi­ents), L-Malic Acid, Saccharin, Soluble solids, Sucrose, Phosphorous/Phosphate. Milk and milk products:amendment to the commodity standard on the mois­ture content to add whey powders to the list, Numeric Performance Criteria for methods used for the quanti­fication of Copper and Iron. Miscellaneous products -­Dried Meat: Chloride as sodium chloride; Food Grade Salt: Iodine (only for products fortified with Iodate) and Sodium Chloride and description of the determination of sodium chloride and related sampling method for food grade salt.

Revoked methods — Fish and fishery products (Salted Fish and Dried Salted Fish of the Gadidae Family of  Fishes – CXS 167 (2018 version): Determination of salt content, Salt saturation. Follow up formulas: Vitamin A by colorimery (AOAC 974.29, Type IV), Iodine (milk-based formula, AOAC 992.224 by Ion selective potentiometry). All foods: previously mentioned methods for dietary fibers (AOAC 2011.25 and AACC Intl 32-50.1). Fruit Juices: Carbon dioxide (additives and processing aids) by IFU n°42, Malic acid by EN 1138.

Unchanged methods — Cereals, Pulses and Legumes and derived products: Quinoa – protein content (type IV) until further work discussed. Fruit Juices and Nectars: Malic acid (additives); Preservatives in fruit juices (sorbic acid and its salts). Milk and milk prod­ucts: Whey powder — Water (moisture) noting that the water content is excluding the crystallized water which is bound to lactose (that part being generally known as the moisture content). Dried meat: Chloride as sodium chloride (≥ 0.25% or ≥ 1.0%).

Methods for further consideration until CCMAS45 with some amended during the IWG/CCMAS44 sessions – Chocolate and Chocolate Products: Cocoa butter (determined as fat); Milk fat; Moisture; Mois­ture (Determined as Water); Non-cocoa butter vege­table fat; Fat; Free fatty acids; Unsaponifiable matter; Cocoa butter equivalents in cocoa butter and plain chocolate; Cocoa butter Equivalents in Milk Chocolate; Determination of center and coating of filled chocolate (all methods approved for the chocolate type used for the coating and those approved for the type of center concerned). Cocoa powders (cocoa) ad dry cocoa-sugar mixtures: Moisture (Determined as Water); Deter­mination of full-fat cocoa powder, fat-reduced cocoa powder, and highly fat-reduced cocoa powder; Deter­mination of cocoa butter (to be developed). Follow-up formula: Riboflavin, Niacin (x2), Vitamin B6 (x2), Vitamin B12 (x2), Folic acid (x2), Biotin, Iron (x2), Calcium (x2), Phosphorous, Magnesium (x2), Sodi­um, Chloride, Potassium, Manganese, Selenium (x4), Copper, Zinc, Choline. Fruit juices and nectars: Benzoic acid and its salts – Sorbic acid and its salts, Benzoic acid and its salts, Sulphur dioxide alts, Sulphur diox­ide (x3), Tartaric acid in grape juices, Total Nitrogen, Acetic acid (acetate), Alcohol (ethanol), Anthocyanins, Ash, Beet sugar, Benzoic acid, C13/C12 ratio of ethanol derived from fruit juices, Carbon stable isotope ratio (x2), Carotenoids (as total carotenoids and as individ­ual groups), Centrifugable pulp, Chloride (expressed as sodium chloride), Chloride, Essential oils, Essential oils in citrus fruit, Fermentability, Formol number, Free amino acids, Fumaric acid, Glucose Fructose and Sucrose/Saccharose, Glycerol, Hesperidin and Naringin (x2), Hydroxymethylfurfural (x2), D-isocitric acid (x2), D- and L- Lactic Acid, L-Malic/Total Malic ratio to detect added D-Malic acid, pH value (x2), Proline, Relatice density (x2), Sodium Potassium Calcium and Magnesium, D-Sorbitol, Starch, Titratable acids, Total dry matter at 70°C, Total solids (by microwave oven drying), Vitamin C (dehydro-ascorbic acid and ascorbic acid). Fruit juices: Carbon stable isotope ratio of sugars from fruit juices. Apple Juice: High Fructose Corn Syrup and Hydrolyzed Inulin. Orange juice: Sugar beet de­rived syrups in frozen concentrated orange juice.

[vii] See https://ifu-fruitjuice.com/page/LCHP2

[viii] CCMAS44 recalled that CCMAS43 endorsed the method for determining protein in quinoa (ISO 1871) as Type IV, noting that the typing could be reconsid­ered should more information be provided. The VWG considered replies to CL 2024/91-MAS, but information provided at that time of the IWG met did not allow the VWG to find any consensus on retyping the ISO 1871 method as a type I method. During the VWG, anoth­er method was also offered as an alternative Type I method for the determination of protein in quinoa (i.e., ISO 20483), but it was noted a lack of specific vali­dation data of that method for pseudocereals such as quinoa. The ISO representative informed the VWG that quinoa could be added in future as a validated ma­trix and that ISO might consider taking up that work if needed (based on an ISO member internal request and ISO working procedures). CCMAS44 extensively discussed the information submitted by seven countries from Latin America (Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador, Colom­bia, Chile, Uruguay, and Argentina), as presented in CCMAS44’s CRD19 document. Such information was recognised to be supportive of a retyping of the method ISO 1871 as Type I (official method). Information in CRD19 informed CCMAS44 on details about the vali­dation studies and process, the reagents used, the con­ditions of the methods, the catalysts used, while noting that a single reference material for quinoa was also used during the validation studies. An explanatory footnote was proposed (e.g. regarding conditions, the catalysts and reagents used), noting that the same footnote would be consequentially applied to the ISO 1871 method for determining protein in Tehena to ensure consistency. It was also reiterated that CCMAS should apply the same decisions regarding the use of ISO 1871 for the deter­mination of protein to Tehena to ensure consistency. Members and Observers which did not support the pro­posal expressed concerns that ISO 1871 was a general guidance and not a step-by-step method, since it did not specify conditions and chemicals. In accordance with the definition for a Type I method, a detailed analysis of the steps taken across the different validation studies would be necessary to retype ISO 1871 from Type IV to Type I, even though there was no issue with the valida­tion data themselves. CCMAS44 agreed that this topic should be deferred to the PWG on endorsement that would meet immediately prior to CCMAS45 to allow more time to review CRD19.

[ix] The document provides additional information about the sampling plans referred to in the CXG 50, by pro­viding examples for each of the main types of sampling plans, additional information on other sampling plans, including Bayesian plans, and links to the Apps for designing and evaluating such sampling plans. App 1 evaluates and designs sampling plans for homogeneous lots, which is included in the information document by link. Apps 2 and 3 were being developed and would be included in the information document once available. As more Apps are developed, links to these Apps would be included also in the information document. Other resources (e.g. video clips, webinars) would be provided to the extent possible on Codex website (such as the one held on April 28, 2025). As recommended during the two previous CCMAS sessions on this matter for including sampling plans involving smaller sample sizes or less testing, part 3 of the document includes presen­tation of Bayesian plans, based on risk- or utility-based approaches, while the overall rest of the document struc­ture remained largely unchanged. CCMAS44 discussed an edited version of the information document, as included in CCMAS44’s CRD35. Some concerns were expressed by Japan about the inclusion of Bayesian plans in the information document, as the scope of cur­rent CXG 50 (2023 version) was restricted to acceptance sampling plans for inspecting isolated homogeneous lots (i.e., and therefore not using Bayesian approaches). It was clarified that Bayesian sampling plans provided a potential way to reduce testing costs and was an area of still on-going international scientific work, including within ISO, about which a technical report on applying Bayesian methods to acceptance sampling was expected to be published end 2025. It was also suggested that the information document may need to be complemented with information relating to the Codex Principles for the Use of Sampling and Testing in International Food Trade (CXG 83, 2015 version).

[x] CCMAS44 noted the NPC were developed for both adopted MLs and the lowest proposed residue levels in the relevant food matrices. It also reviewed the list of methods submitted by CCFA, including one recently published method added and provided a summa­ry of the method validation data (in Appendix 3 of CCMAS44 working document CX/MAS 25/44/10) for assessment against the NPC. “Examples of applicable methods that met the established criteria” that met the NPC had been identified from Appendix 3 and were presented in Appendices 1 and 2 of CX/MAS 25/44/10. The revised versions were therefore presented in Appen­dix VI of CCMAS44 CRD02 Rev.1. It was highlighted that should CCFA decide to revise the lowest proposed residue levels, suitable analytical methods should be selected based on the information provided in Appendix III of CCMAS44 working document CX/MAS 25/44/10.

[xi] (a) Dr. Latimer, George W, Jr. (ed.), ‘Validation Pro­cedures for Quantitative Food Allergen ELISA Methods: Community Guidance and Best Practices’, in Dr. George W Latimer, Jr. (ed.), Official Methods of Analysis of AOAC INTERNATIONAL, 22nd Edition (New York, 2023; online, AOAC Publications, 4 Jan. 2023). (b) EN 17855:2024 Foodstuffs – Minimum performance requirements for quantitative measurement of the food allergens milk, egg, peanut, hazelnut, almond, walnut, cashew, pecan nut, Brazil nut, pistachio nut, macada­mia nut, wheat, lupine, sesame, mustard, soy, celery, fish, mollusks and crustaceans, CEN, 2024.

[xii] The proposed conversion factors for adoption were included in Appendix III of the CCMAS44 report. Nitrogen To Protein Conversion Factors For Commod­ities Approved By Commodity Committees Proposed For approval by CAC48 and Future Inclusion as an Annex to CXS 234: Animal Protein Source: Milk and milk products – 6.38; Meat and meat products – 6.25. Infant formula: The calculation of the protein content of infant formulas prepared ready for consumption should be based on N x 6.25, unless a scientific justifi­cation is provided for the use of a different conversion factor for a particular product. The value of 6.38 is generally established as a specific factor appropriate for conversion of nitrogen to protein in other milk products, and the value of 5.71 as a specific factor for conversion of nitrogen to protein in other soy products. Follow-up formula for older infants and product for young children: The calculation of the protein content of the final product ready for consumption should be based on N x 6.25, unless a scientific justification is provided for the use of a different conversion factor for a particular product. The protein levels set in this standard are based on a nitrogen conversion factor of 6.25. For information the value of 6.38 is used as a specific factor appropriate for conversion of nitrogen to protein in other Codex standards for milk products. In accordance with the Guidelines on nutrition labelling (CXG 2-1985), the calculation of protein for nutrient declaration purposes should be based on a conversion factor of 6.25, unless a different factor is specified in the present annex. Fish and fishery products: Crackers from marine and freshwater fish, crustaceans and molluscan shellfish – 6.25. Plant Protein Source: Wheat, wheat protein products – 5.71; Maize – 6.25; Quinoa – 6.25; Sorghum – 6.25; Millet (grains and flour) – 5.71; Gochujang – 6.25. Soya and non-fermented soybean products: 5.71; Tempe – 5.71; Natto – 5.71; Cheonggukjang – 5.71. Vegetable protein Products (VPP): Products produced by separation from wheat and soya grains and flours of certain non-protein constituents (starch, other carbohy­drates) – 6.25. Soy protein products – 6.25. CCMAS44 noted that the list would continue to be updated as new nitrogen to protein conversion factors were agreed by commodity committees. It was also explained that in cases where such nitrogen to protein conversion factors had been developed by a committee adjourned sine die (or dissolved) and needed further review, the Codex Secretariat would look into some practical modalities for such a review.

[xiii] The document included in Appendix VI of CCMAS44 report is entitled “Harmonization of Names for Prin­ciples in CXS 234-1999” is composed of the following sections: 1. General Guidelines; 2. Definitions (Prin­ciple, Biological assay, Chromatography, Colorimetry, Gravimetry, Potentiometry, Sensory assay, Spectroscopy, Mass Spectrometry (MS), Titrimetry, Visual examina­tion, Volumetry); 3. Criteria Used (3.1. Assays Whose Results are Method Dependent – e.g., Moisture at 105°C – Gravimetry, etc.; 3.2 Assays Whose Results are independent of the method – e.g., Nitrate – UV-Vis (ultraviolet visible) – Spectrophotometry, etc.); 4. Additional information (to consider removing any additional information such as “ashing”, “ceramic filter filtration”, etc.); Annex A — Principles of Methods of Analysis (e.g.; Anodic Stripping Voltammetry (ASV), etc.); Annex B – Acronyms and abbreviations (e.g., AAS Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry; etc.); An­nex C List of Acronyms for Standard Method References (e.g., AACC, USP, ISO, etc.); and the to-be-developed Annex D – List of Provisions. CCMAS44 also noted the view that the provisions in CXS 234 should remain aligned with those in the commodity standards to avoid misalignment and confusion. It was further emphasized that the provisions in CXS 234 reflected the original commodity standard provisions and should not be oversimplified as this could remove essential context. Some provisions indicated method complementarity and had been the subject of extensive discussions. Some of the proposed changes in Annex D carried significant implications. Therefore, consultation with commodity committees and other relevant committees was nec­essary and for better clarity future proposed changes would be presented in three groups: those requiring no changes or only editorial changes; those changes linked to active commodity committees; and those changes related to adjourned sine die or abolished commodity committees. The Codex Secretariat also clarified that, in general, CCMAS did not have the authority to make such changes to provisions falling within the remit of a Commodity Committee adjourned sine die (or abolished/dissolved). If necessary, such proposals should be referred to the CAC, as per the mechanism followed precedingly with the proposed amendment of a pro­vision in section 3.3 of the Codex Standard for Edible Casein Products (CXS 290).