The grocery industry plays a key role in food traceability, despite the extension of the compliance deadline for section 204 of the FDA’s Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) to July 20, 2028.
While there have been calls for regulatory changes to ease the burden of food traceability requirements, progress is being made in preparing suppliers for compliance.
A webinar hosted by Repositrak revealed that major retailers like Walmart, Kroger, and Albertsons have already implemented traceability requirements that exceed federal standards.
Many companies are imposing stricter data requirements and deadlines for traceability, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive traceability programs beyond FDA regulations.
Notably, companies like Albertsons, Sam’s Club, and Kroger are mandating traceability for all foods, simplifying data collection and setting a new industry standard beyond FSMA 204 requirements.
Repositrak highlighted that a significant number of retailers and wholesalers are requesting traceability data from all food suppliers, with some setting earlier deadlines than the FDA.
Challenges remain for suppliers due to varying technical capabilities, prompting Repositrak to encourage early adoption of traceability practices to ensure accurate and consistent data sharing.
Repositrak’s partnership with the National Grocers Association aims to support independent grocers in achieving traceability compliance through education, training, and resources.