PTI Label
What is a PTI Label?
A PTI label refers to a Produce Traceability Initiative label, which is a standardized label used in the fresh produce industry to facilitate traceability throughout the supply chain.
The Produce Traceability Initiative was established by the following organizations as an effort to enhance the traceability of fresh produce items:
- Produce Marketing Association (PMA)
- Canadian Produce Marketing Association (CPMA)
- United Fresh Produce Association
Why was the PTI Created?
The Produce Traceability Initiative (PTI) was created to enhance traceability in the fresh produce industry by establishing standardized practices for identifying and tracking produce throughout the supply chain. The initiative was developed in response to various challenges and concerns within the industry, including food safety issues, recalls, and the need for improved supply chain efficiency. Here are some key reasons behind the creation of the Produce Traceability Initiative:
- Food Safety Concerns
- Supply Chain Efficiency
- Regulatory Requirements
- Market Demands for Transparency
- Recall Management
- Industry Collaboration
By addressing these challenges, the Produce Traceability Initiative strives to create a more transparent, efficient, and safer fresh produce supply chain, benefiting both industry stakeholders and consumers alike.
What is on a PTI Label?
PTI labels typically include a Global Trade Item Number (GTIN), a lot number, and a batch or pack date. The GTIN is a unique identifier for the product, providing information about the item, its manufacturer, and other relevant details. The lot number helps in tracing the specific lot or batch of produce, and the pack date indicates when the product was packaged. Here is an example of what a PTI label would look like and what would be included on the label.
- GS1-128 Barcode
- Product Description
- Pack Size
- Date of Packaging or Harvest
- Country of Origin
- Distribution Information
- PTI Voice Pick Code
The implementation of PTI labels aims to improve the efficiency of tracking and tracing fresh produce, making it easier to respond to food safety issues, recalls, and other supply chain challenges. It enhances transparency, accountability, and overall safety in the fresh produce industry.