Enhancing Traceability Systems with GS1 Norms and Standards
In the ever-evolving world of food production, a globally recognized system is making waves – GS1 Traceability. This innovative system is not just about meeting regulatory compliance, but unlocking business intelligence and enabling new models like digital product passports (DPPs).
GS1 Traceability revolves around capturing, sharing, and interoperable supply chain data. Events like harvest, processing, shipping, and receiving are logged in a common format using EPCIS (Electronic Product Code Information Service). This consistent data flow allows for improved supplier training, streamlined data collection, and fostering consumer trust.
To ensure a consistent workflow, it's essential to train farmers, suppliers, warehouse staff, and QA teams on how to capture, scan, and upload GS1 data. This training is crucial for businesses aiming to future-proof themselves in a global market, focusing on regulatory compliance, consumer trust, or sustainability goals.
Implementing GS1 Traceability requires mapping supply chain flows, adopting GS1 IDs, integrating ERP/WMS, sharing auditable data, and training suppliers. Every product, location, and logistics unit is tagged with a standardized GS1 identifier (GTIN, GLN, SSCC). This interoperability allows trading partners to access standardized, auditable data through secure EPCIS sharing or data pools.
Events like the project undertaken by our product in collaboration with GS1 India and a leading online grocery platform, aimed at establishing an end-to-end traceability system for the chicken supply chain, serve as prime examples. This project ensured transparency with GS1 standards and boosted consumer confidence.
In addition, QR codes can be implemented to provide consumers with instant access to product origin, farm details, sustainability metrics, and certifications. This transparency not only builds brand loyalty but also caters to the growing consumer demand for sustainably sourced and fully traceable products. A staggering 73% of consumers are willing to pay more for such products.
The project also involves key players like Cargill, IBM, and the organization Wageningen University & Research, working towards an end-to-end traceability solution in poultry breeding.
To delve deeper into the best practices, technology solutions, and real-world examples, one can explore blogs like "Demystifying food safety regulations," "Buyer's guide to food traceability solutions," and "QR code technologies driving Transparency and Trust."
In conclusion, GS1 Traceability is a powerful tool for food businesses, offering benefits beyond regulatory compliance. By embracing this system, businesses can future-proof themselves, streamline data collection, improve supplier training, foster consumer trust, and even boost sales.
