Supermarket operators face a significant challenge in complying with FSMA Section 204 due to the complexity of their supply chains. With multiple suppliers, distributors, and transportation partners involved, tracking the movement of food products from farm to shelf can be overwhelming. To address this challenge, many supermarkets are investing in advanced technology solutions such as digital record-keeping systems and blockchain technology.
Digital record-keeping systems allow supermarkets to maintain detailed records of all food-related activities, from sourcing to transportation. These systems capture real-time data, ensuring that critical information is easily accessible in case of a food safety issue or regulatory inspection. Additionally, digital records are more reliable and secure, reducing the risk of errors or tampering.
Blockchain technology, known for its decentralized and immutable ledger, provides another level of transparency and traceability to the food supply chain. By recording transactions securely and transparently, blockchain allows stakeholders to track food products accurately from farm to fork. Supermarkets using blockchain technology can quickly trace contaminated products to their source, facilitating targeted recalls and protecting public health.
According to Andrew Kennedy, principal traceability advisor for iFoodDS, supermarkets are adopting various technologies to comply with FSMA 204. Blockchain technology ensures secure and immutable data storage, providing peace of mind to retailers. IoT devices are also gaining popularity in the food retail sector, allowing for the capture of FSMA 204 data as well as other critical data such as temperature and humidity. Some supermarkets are implementing new software applications specifically designed for capturing and sharing FSMA 204 data during essential tracking events like shipping, receiving, and transformation.