Have you finished snacking but still crave more information on Food Safety Modernization Act Rule 204 (FSMA Rule 204)? With deadlines fast approaching, FSMA Rule 204 is on the minds (and plates) of many in the food supply chain.
FSMA Rule 204 requirements focus on those who manufacture, process, pack, or hold any of the foods on the Food Traceability List (FTL). Requirements aim to strengthen the food traceability system and can apply to different roles in the supply chain, ranging from growing ingredients to creating the final dish. Here are a few examples:
1. Supermarkets
If operating ghost kitchens or manufacturing facilities that serve other locations, supermarkets fall under the category of reprocessors/repackagers, which has specific requirements for transformations.
2. Farms
Farms must provide a map showing the areas where certain foods on the FTL are grown or raised.
3. Food Processors
When physically acquiring products from a supplier and then combining, repackaging, or transforming the food before shipping it to clients, food processors may need to meet the requirements as a receiver, transformer, and shipper.
A Potluck of Opportunity
Given the potential confusion and misconceptions, every member of the food supply chain should start having conversations about how FSMA Rule 204 impacts them and prepare a readiness strategy. This conversation should extend beyond the food safety team. Other parties within an organization can also contribute:
Master Data
Accurate and standardized master or product and location data is essential for complete interoperability and automation. Recordkeeping requirements are part of FSMA Rule 204; a review of current processes should address privacy concerns.
Legal
Align with your legal team to ensure compliance and address any legal implications.
Technology/IT
While requirements do not stipulate the use of any digital technologies, many organizations will face challenges maintaining and sharing the large volume of data required for the level of traceability FSMA Rule 204 establishes without the help of digital tools.
Executive
Ensure buy-in and support from executive leadership to help with any budgeting or resource needs that may come up.
Serving Up Success
Leading manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, retailers, and foodservice operators are already leveraging their investment in GS1 Standards to help with FSMA Rule 204 requirements—learn how you can too!
