WASHINGTON, DC - A call to action has come down the pipe. The associations which led Produce Traceability Initiative (PTI) efforts—International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA), Canadian Produce Marketing Association (CPMA), GS1 US, and GS1 Canada—are hoping to enhance traceability, and they need our help. Those who are active members of the PTI associations have been called upon to join the Enhancing Traceability Through Technology Working Group.

“We’ve made great strides with PTI implementation and industry compliance,” said Ed Treacy, IFPA’s Vice President of Supply Chain and Sustainability. “While our technological capabilities grow, we are also seeing a growing need for enhanced traceability solutions. The purpose of this working group is to leverage these existing efforts, and also to consider how our entire fresh produce sector can benefit from further implementation of traceability solutions.”

According to a release, the Enhancing Traceability Through Technology Working Group will bring together individuals from across the supply chain, regardless of technical expertise.

In this group, those participating will focus on 2-D barcodes on case labels, best practices in traceability data sharing, RFID guidance for implementing traceability, GLN guidance, and education. They will also potentially create a repository for lot number definition schemas.

The release noted that participation in the working group is limited to members of the PTI associations (IFPA, CPMA GS1 US and GS1 Canada). Technical experts in the areas of focus are encouraged, but even those without technical expertise are welcome to participate.

If you’re interested in participating, connect with either of these representatives from GS1 US or CPMA by March 25, 2022.

Produce Traceability Initiative International Fresh Produce Association Canadian Produce Marketing Association

GS1 US GS1 Canada