International food standards include
## Core Concept
The international food standards are primarily established and regulated by **Codex Alimentarius**, a collection of internationally recognized standards, codes of practice, guidelines, and other recommendations relating to foods, food production, and food safety. Its texts are developed and maintained by the **Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC)**, a body established in 1963 by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO).
## Why the Correct Answer is Right
The **Codex Alimentarius** includes a wide range of standards for foods, such as quality standards for specific foods (e.g., wheat, rice, and fats), standards for food additives, contaminants, and naturally occurring toxicants, veterinary drug residues, and pesticide residues. These standards aim to protect consumer health and ensure fair practices in the food trade.
## Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect
- **Option A:** While there are numerous international organizations involved in food safety and standards, option A is not specified. Generally, organizations like the **FAO** and **WHO** play crucial roles in setting these standards but are not the standards themselves.
- **Option B:** Similarly, option B is unspecified but could refer to other standards or organizations not directly related to the primary international food standards.
- **Option C:** This option is also unspecified but could potentially refer to regional or national standards rather than international ones.
## Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact
A key point to remember is that **Codex Alimentarius** standards are crucial for international trade, as they provide a basis for countries to harmonize their food safety and quality regulations. This helps in facilitating global food trade while ensuring that food products are safe for consumption.
## Correct Answer Line
**Correct Answer: D. Codex Alimentarius.**