FAO

The abbreviation for the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, the Rome-based agency leading international efforts against hunger. It sets food standards jointly with WHO through the Codex Alimentarius, and publishes data and guidance on food safety, nutrition and agriculture. Founded in 1945 and headquartered in Rome, the FAO runs the Codex Alimentarius Commission with WHO, setting the international food standards referenced in WTO trade disputes. Its data platforms — FAOSTAT, food-balance sheets — and its Food Safety and Quality programme guide national regulators, particularly in developing countries.