Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) Measures

Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) Measures are regulations and standards to protect humans, animals, and plants from diseases, pests, and contaminants. They ensure food safety and animal and plant health.

Authorities implement SPS measures including quarantine regulations, inspection procedures, and testing protocols. Food safety examples include microbiological criteria and maximum residue limits. Animal health measures include vaccination requirements and movement restrictions. Plant health measures encompass pest-free zones and phytosanitary certificates.

SPS regulations follow international standards established by organizations like the World Trade Organization (WTO), the Codex Alimentarius Commission, and the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC). Compliance with these standards ensures that imported products meet safety requirements, preventing the entry of harmful organisms.