Grains are important sources of nutrients for people around the world. They can be used in their natural state, processed in the industry as ingredients for other products, or even for animal feed. But for now, let’s focus on the end consumer. Imagine knowing all the crucial stages of production and processing of an ingredient that makes up a large percentage of your favorite snack. Or even knowing which region the grains came from… Such information can be obtained through an implemented traceability system.
Traceability is the ability to track the path of a product throughout its supply chain, from origin to end consumer. This includes information on how the product was grown, harvested, stored, processed, distributed, and what measures were taken to ensure its quality, allowing for the rapid identification of potential issues and the application of corrective actions.
Learn More About Grain Traceability: OPTA Blockchain System
For grains, traceability is particularly important for several reasons. Firstly, grains are often stored for long periods before being processed and distributed. During this time, there is a possibility of contamination from agents such as birds, insects, and rodents, as well as fungi, bacteria, and other substances that might compromise the product’s quality. Many grains are imported from other countries, which can increase the risk of contamination by pathogens or pesticides banned by law.
Taking soybeans as an example, traceability allows for tracking the origin of the soybeans from planting to reaching consumers, identifying all stages of the supply chain from the producer to the processor, distributor, and retailer. This makes it possible to determine whether the soybeans were produced sustainably and in compliance with environmental and labor laws, avoiding the consumption of products produced in a way that is harmful to the environment or society.
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Regarding product identification with traceability, soybeans, for example, may feature seals or certifications usually governed by standards and audited by certifiers. Some examples of seals and certifications that ensure traceability and sustainable production of soybeans include ProTerra Certification, Global FoodChain ID Non-GMO, and RTRS, which enable the integration of Non-GMO, GMO, and Organic/Biological grain production.
Additionally, on the product packaging or on labels attached at the point of sale, information such as the producer’s location, the cultivation method used, and the harvest date may be found.
Traceability is also important from a sustainability perspective. With accurate information about the origin, cultivation procedures, and processing of grains, it is possible to evaluate the agricultural practices used in the production of the product. This can help promote more sustainable and conscious consumption practices, directly impacting the daily lives of consumers who demand quality and safe products, as well as contributing to the environmental and social sustainability of agricultural production.
Finally, traceability can help protect consumers from food fraud, allowing for the rapid identification of affected, adulterated, or contaminated products, and taking measures to protect and prevent harm to consumers’ health.
Read Also: Certified Grains – Sustainability and Safety
