FDA Intends to Extend Compliance Date for Food Traceability Rule

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced its intention to extend the compliance date for the Food Traceability Rule by 30 months. The FDA said it plans to follow necessary procedural steps, such as publishing a proposed rule in the Federal Register, including providing an opportunity for public comment, to officially enact this extension in the future while maintaining its commitment to fully implementing the rule’s requirements.

"We appreciate the FDA’s commitment to ensuring full coordination across the supply chain for the successful implementation of the final rule,” said Ed Treacy, IFPA’s vice president of supply chain. “Many IFPA members were prepared to meet the original 2026 implementation timeline, and we remain dedicated to helping them navigate and comply with these requirements. Food traceability should serve as a unifying priority for food businesses, and we encourage our members to stay engaged and take advantage of upcoming opportunities to understand how this rule impacts their operations."

The Food Traceability Rule establishes additional traceability recordkeeping requirements for entities that manufacture, process, pack, or hold foods on the Food Traceability List. This extension is intended to provide industry members with additional time to coordinate efforts across the supply chain and fully implement the final rule’s requirements. However, the FDA emphasizes that the extension does not modify the rule’s requirements or its goal of enhancing food safety and public health.

Next Steps for IFPA Members:

• The compliance date extension does not change the requirements of the rule. All covered entities should continue preparing for full implementation.
• Members should verify their customers’ requirements before making any decisions regarding implementation timelines.
• IFPA will continue to provide updates and resources to assist members in meeting compliance obligations.

The final rule applies to both domestic and foreign entities producing food for U.S. consumption and was issued in accordance with the FDA Food Safety Modernization Act in 2022.

Members are encouraged to stay informed and reach out with any questions or concerns.

Learn more about the rule on IFPA’s Food Traceability Rule page.