One specific set of requirements in the law, the Final Rule on Requirements for Additional Traceability Records for Certain Foods , is reshaping and modernizing the approach to food safety and food supply chain data. Under FSMA, the Food Traceability Final Rule defines additional recordkeeping requirements all those who manufacture, process, pack, or hold foods on the Food Traceability List FTL , which includes cheeses, shellfish, and certain fruits and vegetables. It provides you and your trading partners with clear guidance on what data you must keep and share as your products move across your supply chain.
The Food and Drug Administration plays a pivotal role in FSMA traceability: It sets FSMA traceability requirements, evaluates foods using a risk-ranking model, and holds stakeholders accountable for complying with the act. In addition to setting traceability recordkeeping requirements, the FDA also assesses penalties for non-compliance with the traceability program. The specific requirements for your business will vary based on your role in the food supply chain.
Many requirements focus on initial packing and labeling; proper packaging and labeling promote FSMA traceability and streamline the flow of goods along the supply chain. FSMA also requires using traceability lot codes, developing a traceability plan, and sharing records with the FDA when requested. Embracing traceability promotes better food safety and protects consumers from foodborne illnesses.
If an issue arises with one of your products, you can use traceability data to quickly find where it came from and where it is now. This granular, read-time information expedites recalls and ensures that all affected products are removed from store shelves as quickly as possible.
From a business perspective, FSMA helps you protect your brand image, as you can ensure the quality, integrity, and safety of food products. In addition to enhancing your reputation, you can use FSMA traceability to identify bottlenecks within the supply chain and eliminate waste. FSMA gives the FDA the authority to establish modern, science- and risk-based requirements, including all the traceability requirements in Section Other requirements, such as using traceability lot codes and having systems to share electronic sortable spreadsheets with traceability information to the FDA, are also part of a strategic approach to leveraging technology for FSMA compliance.
