AUSTRALIAN citrus consumers can access detailed information about where their fruit comes from by scanning a QR code on revolutionary new packaging adopted by Mildura Fruit Company.
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Shoppers and supply chain stakeholders can use a smartphone to scan the label which will take them to product authentication statements, origin, brand stories and more.
They can even participate in surveys, games and feedback, creating a two-way flow of information between consumers and producers in realtime, wherever they may be in the world.
Importantly, the technology does not require special apps or scanning devices, and is based on GS1 coding technology along with technology by solution provider, Trust Codes.
The full-scale deployment at Mildura Fruit Company is a result of a previous pilot program funded by Agriculture Victoria three years ago.
Agriculture Victoria policy executive director, Sarah-Jane McCormack said the importance of traceability for the agriculture sector could not be understated.
"Agriculture Victoria is proud to have supported this milestone achievement for enhancing traceability, ensuring food safety and supporting the sector to meet market access requirements around the world," Ms McCormack said.
Citrus Australia chief executive, Nathan Hancock, said the program emphasised the importance of developing robust traceability systems and GS1's role within this process.
"The official recommendation of Citrus Australia to our industry members is to build traceability systems into their businesses, sooner rather than later and they should do so using GS1 standards," Mr Hancock said.
"GS1 standards provide a solid foundation for future development, consolidation with system changes and integration with supply chain partners."
GS1 highlighted the recently implemented US FDA Food Traceability Rule as an example of the growing global emphasis on traceability regulations where companies in the food supply chain are required to provide traceability data back to the farm within 24 hours in an electronic format.
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