International dimension and enlargement
The European Union, as a major producer and importer of foodstuffs, has signed a number of agreements and joined various international bodies that assist with establishing safety and quality standards for foodstuffs and food products, including the Codex Alimentarius and the International Office for Epizootic Diseases. The legal framework of the Union (the acquis of the European Union) relating to food safety is adopted by the countries joining the European Union under the heading of agriculture and consumer policies.