Ultimate Guide For Grocers: Get Ready For Food Traceability Requirements Coming in 2026

The new FSMA 204 regulations mark a significant shift in food safety, pushing grocers to enhance traceability and accountability across the supply chain. While compliance may seem daunting, it ultimately strengthens food safety by enabling faster response times in cases of contamination. Industry leaders like Kroger and Walmart are already setting higher standards, recognizing that traceability isn’t just a regulatory requirement—it’s a competitive advantage. Retailers that proactively adopt these practices will not only avoid legal risks but also build consumer trust. Transparency is now an expectation, and grocers must adapt to meet both regulatory and customer-driven demands.

Implementing traceability comes with financial and operational challenges, particularly for smaller retailers and suppliers with limited technological capabilities. The transition requires investment in digital record-keeping, supplier collaboration, and training to ensure accurate data collection at every stage. However, failing to comply could result in costly legal consequences and reputational damage. Solutions like third-party partnerships and centralized tracking systems can help streamline the process. Ultimately, food safety is a shared responsibility, and embracing traceability will not only ensure compliance, but also enhance overall supply chain efficiency and consumer confidence in food quality.

Intertek’s food experts help businesses navigate global regulations, ensuring compliance, safety, and market readiness. Our solutions include auditing, inspection, traceability, and regulatory support to mitigate risks and help companies comply with the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA)