Growers Express Implements Traceability Solution
June 17, 2010 Growers Express, the farmer-owned integrated grower, packer, and shipper of Green Giant Fresh vegetables, has implementing the Produce Traceability Initiative’s (PTI) Best Practices. As companies evaluate the complexity and initial cost implications of achieving PTI’s main goal of whole-chain traceability, Growers Express’ in-field and packinghouse carton-labeling system has proven to be an efficient and cost-effective solution.
Over the past year, Growers Express first pilot-tested and later implemented the TrueTrac Label Trac system. To date, more than 85% of Growers Express’ branded, domestic, corrugated packs are labeled according to PTI Best Practices. By fall 2010, Growers Express will be 100% in concert with the PTI on all packs.
“The success of Growers Express in its implementation of the Produce Traceability Initiative clearly shows the ability of companies with top management commitment to address more than just enhanced traceability for their products,” says Bryan Silbermann, president of the Produce Marketing Association. “With a wide variety of crops, packing variations and geographic locations, Growers Express can be a model for others seeking to build on GS1 standards to realize improved efficiencies and generate a tangible return on investment.” “
According to Growers Express additional value will result from following the PTI guidelines and achieving whole-chain traceability. “Although our primary PTI objective is to encourage a more transparent and accountable supply chain, we are already seeing areas in which we will experience significant savings from efficient, accurate and timely field data provided by the technology platform and process standardization,” points out Growers Express general manager Gary Andreasian.
For more information about Growers Express, go to www.GrowersExpress.com.
