Sysco Corp. says it will implement advanced traceability measures, effective summer 2024, to ensure its food products’ safety, quality and transparency from farm to table.
The plan also supports the Food Traceability Rule, issued by the Food and Drug Administration under the Food Safety Modernization Act, according to a news release. The rule mandates establishing a traceability record-keeping system for certain foods to facilitate faster identification and rapid removal of potentially harmful products from the market.
“Sysco is dedicated to leading the industry in food safety to protect our customers and our communities,” said Charles Leftwich, Sysco vice president of food safety and quality assurance. “As the industry leader, we’re not just working toward our regulatory compliance, we’re also taking steps to help our suppliers comply.”
The release listed key components of Sysco’s traceability initiative:
- Strong partnerships — To bolster its traceability efforts, Sysco will partner with iFoodDS — a provider of traceability, food safety and quality management solutions. This collaboration will give Sysco’s supplier network flexible, interoperable and pragmatic options for sharing data required by FSMA 204.
- Enhanced digital tracking systems — Sysco will use 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 — Sysco will work closely with its network of suppliers to implement traceability practices. Sysco, in partnership with iFoodDS, will provide education and guidance to align supplier processes with Sysco’s traceability standards.
- Customer support — Sysco said it 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 monitor compliance and improve traceability processes. This team will work to ensure that Sysco remains at the forefront of food safety and regulatory adherence.
