All articles tagged with #traceability
Although part of FSMA since 2011, the FDA’s enhanced food-traceability rule—designed to trace tainted foods from farm to table—has been delayed 15 years by industry lobbying, pushing enforcement from 2026 to 2028. Advocates say the delay hampers rapid traceback during the cyclospora outbreak that sickened tens of thousands and killed two, while industry groups cite cost and complexity and press for workable timelines.
A widespread cyclospora outbreak linked to produce across many states is being clouded by confusing recalls — notably Taylor Farms’ iceberg lettuce — and incomplete product tracing. Officials warn that delays in implementing a key FDA Food Traceability Rule hinder rapid traceback, leaving multiple outbreak clusters unresolved and eroding public trust as producers and regulators grapple with how to pinpoint and remove contaminated items.
The new Northern Ireland Food Animal Information System (NIFAIS) for traceability in the agri-food sector has caused stress for farmers and vets, with reports of technical issues and lack of training. The system, which went live last September, has faced criticism for being slow and difficult to use, leading to concerns about potential penalties for missing regulatory deadlines. The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs stated that they are working to address the issues, but both farmers and vets are calling for a system that is as user-friendly as its predecessor.