GS1 and the International Federation for Produce Standards (IFPS) have produced guidance for those responsible for implementing traceability, including growers, packers, importers and distributors.
The Implementation Guide for Traceability of Fresh Fruit and Vegetables provides a global standard, based on the GS1 Global Traceability standard, for supply chain management and product identification.
Sections of the guide cover the distinct needs of each sector of the supply chain, and demonstrate how to implement the key principles of traceability using best practice examples.
The International Federation for Produce Standards is a coalition of global industry groups including the Asociacion de Exportadores de Chile, the Canadian Produce Marketing Association, the Fresh Produce Consortium (FPC), Horticulture Australia Ltd, the Norway-based Norges Fruktog Gronnsaksgrossister Forbund, United Fresh and the US-based Produce Marketing Association.
Nigel Jenney, chief executive of the FPC, told freshinfo: “The fresh produce industry recognises the importance of a robust method of traceability of fresh produce. Speed and accuracy in tracing consignments through an effective system limits the risk in the event of a food safety issue, can reassure consumers about production methods and avoid unnecessary costs to businesses.
“The GS1 Guide will provide companies with a cost-effective common approach to traceability and provide further assistance in ensuring that they meet international legal requirements and follow best practice. The IFPS aims to improve the supply chain's efficiency by developing, implementing and managing international standards. As a founding member of IFPS, the FPC has welcomed this guide.
“The FPC's own Code of Practice for the Control of Pesticides provides further guidance in relation to the importance of having a pesticide policy that meets legislative requirements and includes detailed records of consignments to assist traceability.
“Under the new Marketing Standards, all fresh produce must be labelled clearly with the country of origin and we believe that this is sufficient to assist consumers in making choices regarding purchases.”
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