MISSION, TX - The Texas International Produce Association (TIPA) is proud to support the launch of the Fresh Papaya Addendum, designed to reflect certainty around food safety and traceability in the papaya industry. This addendum, created in collaboration with ProExport Papaya, empowers handlers and buyers to meet the most rigorous food safety requirements while ensuring consumer confidence in this growing tropical commodity.

“Collaborations like this exemplify the importance of industry partnerships,” said Dante Galeazzi, President and Chief Executive Officer, TIPA. “Our work with ProExport Papaya to develop the original Food Safety Best Practices Guide laid a strong foundation, and this addendum represents another critical step forward. We encourage retailers and foodservice companies to adopt this tool as part of their sourcing standards, furthering their commitment to food safety and consumer trust. There are a lot of suppliers out there, and requiring this addendum ensures buyers select the most reliable sources.”

This milestone builds on a history of collaboration between TIPA and ProExport Papaya, who together developed the Food Safety Best Practices Guide for the Growing and Handling of Mexican Papaya. As a press release added, the guide laid the groundwork for enhanced safety protocols which have prevented a food safety incident associated with papayas since 2019. This new addendum takes these efforts a step further by linking the addendum to a GFSI audit such as PrimusGFS, confirming the presence and sound execution of food safety principles as is demanded by today’s supply chain.

“For over four years, the Mexican papaya export industry has embraced self-regulation practices to enhance safety and sustainability,” said Hector Del Razo Vargas, Chief Executive Officer, ProExport Papaya. “This new collaboration with Azzule Systems and the development of the Fresh Papaya Addendum provide our industry with a powerful tool to meet United States’ market expectations. By integrating this addendum, we can offer even greater assurance to retailers, foodservice operators, and consumers regarding the safety systems implemented by our growers and shippers.”

TIPA applauds the efforts behind this initiative and sees the Fresh Papaya Addendum as a key resource for U.S. retailers and foodservice companies seeking to bolster their sourcing standards. This addendum allows buyers to work with suppliers who prioritize food safety, traceability, and quality assurance, strengthening their trust in papayas. And the best part is buyers need only ask their papaya suppliers annually for their Fresh Papaya Addendum linked to their GFSI audit, as part of their regular food safety documentation.

Key benefits of the addendum include:

• Tailored food safety protocols aligned with the unique needs of the papaya industry
• Improved traceability for a transparent and secure supply chain
• Enhanced market access for Mexican growers and handlers, ensuring competitive positioning in the U.S. market

Growers and handlers interested in incorporating the Fresh Papaya Addendum into their food safety programs can contact their Certification Body/Partner. Retailers and foodservice companies can access more information about how this tool aligns with their sourcing priorities by clicking here.

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