The Produce Traceability Initiative (PTI) is "designed to help the industry maximize the effectiveness of current traceback procedures, while developing a standardized industry approach to enhance the speed and efficiency of traceback systems for the future." PTI is sponsored by the Canadian Produce Marketing Association, GS1 US, Produce Marketing Association and United Fresh Produce Association. For more information on PTI, click here.
"As the 2012 implementation deadline approaches and Congress and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration craft new food safety rules for the industry, more companies who have been less active in executing the required steps will be more active in the process, said Bob Whitaker, chief science and technology officer with the Newark, Del. -based Produce Marketing Association."
Growers are trying to implement some aspects of PTI and running pilot programs. Support from the retail and food service industries, however, is needed for these programs to be successful.
To read The Packer story, click here.
Posted: 10/13/2010
