Track-and-Trace Benefits the Foodservice Industry

Major foodservice companies are seeing measurable benefits as part of the industry-driven Foodservice GS1 US Standards Initiative. Two years ago, the initiative was launched as a voluntary industry collaboration to reduce waste, improve product information, and add traceability in the foodservice supply chain. GS1 US hopes the industry will attain a 75 percent voluntary adoption of GS1 standards by the year 2015.

A Global Data Synchronization Network (GDSN) will provide electronic access to shared data for all supply chain partners, allowing them to improve inventory control and warehouse management, and let them make purchasing and other transactions more efficient.

Using GS1 standards, the industry will have standardized product information and data, much like that of the grocery and retail industries. Instead of distributors each using their own internal systems to move data from manufacturers, distributors can provide more accurate product information with GS1 standards and data sharing. As a result, the industry will gain complete product traceability, from the operator back down the chain to the distributor, manufacturer, processing plants and ultimately, the farm. Traceability is key for food safety, since knowing where a product came from ensures quality control and better recalls in case of a food borne illness outbreak.

The number of foodservice companies subscribing to the GDSN has grown from 191 in 2009 to 1,430 today. Are you thinking of implementing these standards in your business? If you are looking for an affordable way to label your products for better track and trace applications, then give us a call at 1-800-325-5260.