As the industry continues to follow updates to the Food Safety Modernization Act, many shippers are becoming more focused on FDA food traceability rule. With the FDA now signaling that the Food Traceability Rule deadline may shift from January 2026 to July 2028, shippers have more time to prepare, yet the need for organized and consistent record keeping is more important than ever. The rule holds shippers handling foods on the Food Traceability List most responsible, and capturing and storing the required data helps them comply smoothly.
A Shift Towards a 2028 Compliance Date
The FDA has indicated on multiple sections of its website that compliance is expected to move to July 20, 2028. Although this extension provides breathing room, it does not change the depth of information shippers must track. The rule centers around Key Data Elements and Critical Tracking Events that follow a product through harvesting, cooling, packing, shipping, receiving, and any transformation steps.
Why Shippers Carry the Heaviest Responsibility
Shippers hold the most critical data that begins the traceability chain. This includes the product description, packaging type, quantity shipped, any lot or traceability codes supplied by the shipper, and detailed location information for both the shipping point and the next party receiving the product. Shipping temperature-controlled foods requires extra documentation, as you must clearly record temperature ranges and handling instructions.
All of this information must be stored for two years and must be quickly accessible if the FDA requests it during a food traceability investigation.
Understanding the FDA Food Traceability Rule
Instead of thinking about dozens of independent requirements, it is easier to view the rule in a few larger categories. Shippers must document:
Product and Traceability Details
This includes the commodity, packaging, quantity, and any traceability or lot codes provided at the time of shipment. These identifiers need to remain linked to the shipment as it moves through the supply chain.
Shipment Timing and Location Information
The FDA expects accurate dates for when the product is loaded and shipped. Location descriptions must clearly identify the facility or point of origin and the next receiving facility. These location descriptions may include field names, facility names, or other geographic identifiers that support traceability.
Temperature and Handling Requirements for Refrigerated Food
Shippers must document required temperature ranges and any handling instructions such as precooling or continuous temperature control. These details protect the condition of the product and support food safety standards.
How Shippers Can Prepare for the FDA Food Traceability Rule
Although the expected delay provides additional time, it is helpful for shippers to begin building consistent processes now. This may include standardizing shipment data collection, creating traceability templates, and capturing all required details during booking. Keeping organized, centralized records makes it easier to respond within twenty four hours if the FDA requests documentation.
For shippers working with brokers, it is also important to provide clear and complete shipment details. This ensures the information passed to carriers matches the data the shipper is storing for compliance.
Looking Ahead
If the FDA finalizes the extension to July 2028, shippers gain time to prepare without the pressure of the original 2026 deadline. The focus now is on building strong internal documentation habits and understanding exactly what information the rule requires. With consistent record keeping and clear shipment data, shippers can feel confident that they are ready to meet FDA food traceability compliance standards when the final timeline takes effect.