HOUSTON, TX - As a writer, I like to make lists and draw out plans. Along with keeping me focused, this also allows me to make sure nothing slips through the cracks. Sysco has made plans itself, albeit at a much larger and dynamic level. It announced a comprehensive plan to support the Food Traceability Rule, issued by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) under the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA).

“Sysco is dedicated to leading the industry in food safety to protect our customers and our communities,” said Charles Leftwich, Vice President of Food Safety and Quality Assurance. “As the industry leader, we’re not just working toward our own regulatory compliance, we’re also taking steps to help our suppliers comply.”

A press release shared how, effective summer of 2024, the new Food Traceability Rule mandates establishing a traceability recordkeeping system for certain foods to facilitate faster identification and rapid removal of potentially harmful products from the market.

Here’s a breakdown of those key components from Sysco’s Traceability Initiative:

• Strong Partnerships: Sysco will partner with iFoodDS, a leader in traceability, to bolster its traceability efforts, food safety, and quality management solutions, give Sysco’s extensive supplier network flexible, interoperable, and pragmatic options for sharing data required by FSMA 204
• Enhanced Digital Tracking Systems: Sysco will leverage state-of-the-art digital technologies to streamline product tracking through every stage of the supply chain to provide real-time visibility and ensure the integrity of traceability data
• Supplier Collaboration: In partnership with iFoodDS, Sysco will provide education and guidance to align supplier processes with Sysco’s traceability standards, and will work closely with its vast network of suppliers to implement traceability practices
• Customer Support: Sysco is committed to supporting its customers with an effective solution that provides clear and accessible information regarding the traceability of its products
• Continuous Improvement and Compliance: Sysco will establish an internal task force to ensure that Sysco remains at the forefront of food safety and regulatory adherence, monitor compliance, and continuously improve traceability processes

Sounds like great news for suppliers, and the industry at large. ANUK we will keep an eye out as these developments unfold, so click back, folks!