Recently, the FDA has announced a new rule that will officially go into effect in January of 2026. They’re calling it the Food Traceability Rule; which is essentially another way that businesses will be held accountable when it comes to the way food is tracked from production to consumption. The rule will require businesses to maintain thorough traceability records for items on the FDA’s Food Traceability List which includes high-risk foods like fresh leafy greens, tropical tree fruits, nut butters, and soft cheeses.

Traceability Requirements: Changes to Note

The rule mandates businesses to record Traceability Lot Codes at each stage of a product's journey—receipt, storage, and distribution. And organization is of the essence as these records will need to be accessible within a 24 hour period, especially during recalls or audits. 

Compliance Deadlines

The FDA expects compliance starting in January 2026, but most organizations won’t wait that long. To be compliant, businesses will need to implement systems to log and manage data like supplier details, batch numbers, and shipment records. Getting a head start on this is the best way to ensure total compliance by the time the deadline rolls around.

Make Compliance Easy with SMG

When new rules and regulations pop up, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed, especially if you run a small business. The team at SMG is here to help as you begin your planning for this upcoming change. Our traceability solutions are designed to seamlessly integrate with your current operations, so that compliance can happen without additional burdens.

Preparing for the FDA traceability rule 2026 doesn’t have to be a stressful task. Let SMG be your food compliance guide as you move through this transition. Contact us today to learn how our services will simplify the way you comply.

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