Enhancing Traceability Readiness among Small- and Mid-Scale Produce Supply Chains through Practical Training and Recordkeeping Tools

Commodities

Practices

Food traceability is increasingly necessary for participation in regional and wholesale produce markets, yet many small- and mid-scale growers and supply chain stakeholders face challenges in translating traceability requirements into consistent, day-to-day practices. Produce supply chains are complex, involving multiple actors and recordkeeping points. Therefore, gaps in implementation can disrupt product tracking, strain business relationships, and limit market access. While the Food Traceability Rule (FSMA Section 204) defines required recordkeeping, stakeholders often lack clear guidance and practical training to implement these requirements within their operations. Because requirements vary by factors such as operation size, product type, and market channels, many stakeholders face uncertainty about how traceability expectations apply in practice. In addition, these expectations are increasingly driven by buyers and supply chain partners, creating a need for stakeholders to proactively prepare and adopt effective practices.

This project addresses these challenges by developing and delivering a stakeholder-informed traceability training program for small- and mid-scale produce supply chain stakeholders in Indiana, including growers, processors, distributors, and other actors. The training builds on ongoing stakeholder engagement and focuses on the practical application of traceability concepts, including Critical Tracking Events (CTEs), Key Data Elements (KDEs), and accessible recordkeeping approaches. Participants will engage in interactive, application-oriented sessions using ready-to-use templates and supporting tools designed for integration into existing workflows.

Learning outcomes include increased knowledge of traceability requirements and improved confidence in managing records and applying traceability practices. Expected action outcomes include adoption of structured recordkeeping approaches, improved consistency in documentation, and use of tools provided through training within operations. These outcomes support stakeholders in maintaining market access, improving coordination across supply chains, and reducing risks associated with documentation gaps.

Evaluation will assess changes in knowledge and confidence through pre- and post-training surveys, and early application of recordkeeping practices through follow-up assessments. Participant feedback will inform refinement of training materials and future programming.

This project is relevant to farmers and supply chain stakeholders by providing practical, accessible training that addresses traceability challenges. By strengthening stakeholders' capacity to meet evolving supply chain expectations, the project supports improved coordination, reduced operational risk, and sustained participation in regional produce markets across Indiana and the broader North Central region.

Learning outcomes will include increased knowledge and understanding of traceability concepts, such as Critical Tracking Events (CTEs), Key Data Elements (KDEs), and recordkeeping requirements under the Food Traceability Rule (FSMA Section 204). Participants will improve their confidence in organizing and maintaining traceability records and in using templates and tools introduced during training. These outcomes will be measured through pre- and post-training assessments of knowledge and self-efficacy.

Action outcomes will include participants' early application of traceability practices within their operations. This may include adopting structured recordkeeping approaches, improving consistency in documentation across transactions, and using templates and tools provided through training to support traceability requirements. Participants will also demonstrate increased intention to maintain these records consistent with supply chain expectations. These outcomes will be measured through follow-up assessments examining reported changes in practices and the use of training materials and tools.

By supporting both learning and early action, the project will strengthen small- and mid-scale produce supply chain stakeholders' ability to implement traceability practices aligned with existing operations. This improves coordination across supply chain actors while helping maintain market access by reducing documentation gaps.