Food organizations unite to tackle FSMA challenges

The International Foodservice Distributors Association and seven other organizations recently formed the “Food Industry FSMA 204 Collaboration” to enhance awareness of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s Food Traceability Rule, which implements Section 204(d) of the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA).

The Collaboration will share clear, concise messaging and resources that enable industry to take action in preparing for FSMA Rule 204, which was published in November 2022. FSMA Rule 204 mandates a comprehensive tracking and tracing system for certain high-risk foods listed on the FDA’s Food Traceability List, including fresh produce and leafy greens, deli salads, certain types of seafood and more.

The group will provide a forum where business and government officials can come together to educate industry and potentially help ease the burden of compliance.

“Foodservice distributors are deeply committed to providing safe food products to their customers and are highly skilled in tracking and tracing the volume and variety of food they distribute,” Mark S. Allen, IFDA president and CEO, said in a news release.

“Collaborating with supply chain partners is key to enhancing food safety and advancing goals set forth under FSMA Rule 204.”

The other seven participating food industry organizations are the Association of Food and Drug Officials, FMI – The Food Industry Association, GS1 US, Institute of Food Technologists, International Foodservice Manufacturers Association, International Fresh Produce Association, and National Association of State Departments of Agriculture.

“Compliance with FSMA Rule 204 presents a significant challenge for U.S. and foreign agri-food interests, as it imposes unprecedented recordkeeping requirements and necessitates the adoption of advanced traceability technologies,” said Angela Fernandez, GS1 US senior vice president of market development. “By convening food safety, supply chain logistics, and data management experts across many food segments, the new Collaboration aims to share best practices for meeting Food Traceability Rule requirements.”

Recognizing the imperative for a collective response, the Collaboration is founded on core principles, including operational effectiveness through collaboration, traceability for enhanced food safety, standardized data collection, and widespread training and education initiatives. The Collaboration prioritizes the enhancement of awareness and understanding of emerging traceability technologies to help ensure the safety and integrity of the food supply chain. Through united efforts, the Collaboration promotes acceleration of industry-wide compliance with FSMA Rule 204.

“As state and local agencies, AFDO members are often on the front lines, receiving critical information during foodborne illness outbreaks,” said Steven Mandernach, AFDO executive director. “We are committed to collaborating with all partners, including industry, to successfully implement FSMA Rule 204 traceability requirements.

“By working together, we can enhance food safety, ensure efficient traceability, and protect public health across the entire supply chain.”