Benefits of Traceability
for Food Processors
The term "traceability"
may sound complicated. But it refers to a process that we run into every day.
Whenever we swipe our debit card, get a prescription drug, or get a receipt from
the grocery store, we are part of a traceability system. In many industries, traceability
runs smoothly behind the scenes as part of the day-to-day way of doing business.
So why is there so much focus on traceability systems across the agri-food
industry? Simply, it's because these systems improve the efficiency and safety
of our food supply chain. They help everyone involved run a safer and more profitable
business.
Ontario processors with traceability systems report
these benefits:
- Improves inventory control.
This includes the correct actual quantities of products in the warehouse and information
on what is being loaded during shipping.
- Speeds shipping.
With better inventory information, you can shorten shipping times because you
can either ship immediately or plan production better to meet demand.
- Improves customer satisfaction. You deliver the right
product faster, in the right quantities.
- Lowers costs.
You only keep in inventory what you need. If you don't have accurate data on what
you have in the warehouse, you may tend to produce too much. This leads to larger
inventory amounts - in other words, to more money parked in your warehouse.
- Differentiates your product. Examples would be
organic products, "locally grown", or "identity preserved"
soybeans that are targeted to specific markets.
- Improves
food safety. A good traceability system helps a company recall product
quickly. This minimizes the associated costs and the impact of a foodborne outbreak
on a company's brand and reputation.
Learn more
There are
many other benefits of traceability systems: time savings, reduced human error,
and improved business information through accurate reporting. To learn more about
traceability for your business, please contact the ministry.
