GCCA Gives Comments at FDA Traceability Final Rule Requirements Public Meeting

The Global Cold Chain Alliance recently participated in a public meeting organized by the Reagan-Udall Foundation, focusing on the FDA’s final rule regarding additional traceability records for certain foods. This meeting provided a critical platform for industry stakeholders to share concerns and provide statements on the following categories: Traceability Lot Codes & Labeling, Implementation Schedule & Awareness, Warehouse Management Systems & Technology, and Pilot/Concept Testing. GCCA Coordinator of Government Affairs Kerri Marbut provided comments on behalf of GCCA highlighting concerns about implementation of the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Section 204 Rule.

During the meeting, GCCA expressed several critical concerns regarding the final rule:

• Need for additional time for adaptation and pilot programs.

• Overreach of Product Scope

• Complexity in Traceability Requirements

• Strain on Warehouse Management Systems

• Record-Keeping Burden

Many of these points were reiterated by food industry partners. The public meeting was an important opportunity for GCCA to articulate the cold chain industry’s perspectives. GCCA encourages the FDA to take a more manageable approach to traceability that prioritizes food safety, while minimizing burdens on the supply chain.