This session provided an overview of the role of Codex Alimentarius in influencing global regulations and promoting global regulatory harmonization. Nick Gardner explains the foundations of Codex Alimentarius and summarizes recent developments of interest to the spice industry, including discussions on country of harvest labeling and contaminant standards. He also examined the potential ramifications of the U.S. withdrawal from the World Health Organization and how this may influence the U.S.'s role in international food policy.

In this keynote address presented at the 2024 Annual Meeting, former FDA Deputy Commissioner Frank Yiannas offers a balcony-level view of the challenges facing the spice industry and the opportunities they present to create a safer, smarter, and more trusted food system. Food safety awareness is at an all-time high, and we find ourselves in a new era of heightened concern over chemicals in foods. Achieving success in these modern times will require more modern approaches.