Forging ahead with Year 2 of the Innovative Cherries Traceability Pilot

Cherry Growers Australia (CGA), in collaboration with Agriculture Victoria, has announced the continuation of the Cherries Traceability Pilot into its second year. This visionary initiative, funded by a $811,000 grant from Agriculture Victoria’s Transforming Traceability program, remains steadfast in its mission to redefine traceability within the cherry industry, setting new benchmarks for excellence.

The CGA-led pilot commenced in June 2022 and is set to span two cherry harvest seasons, concluding in April 2024. With an unparalleled commitment to innovation, the project has swiftly garnered recognition and support, underscoring its significance in shaping the future of the Australian cherry industry.

As Nick Noske, Acting President of Cherry Growers Australia, affirms, “Traceability remains pivotal to enhancing the competitiveness of our cherries in international markets. It will reinforce the provenance, authenticity, and safety of our products. The insights gained through this initiative continue to serve as a foundation of integrity for our industry, empowering us to navigate both local and global challenges.”

Marcel Sieira, Chief Operating Officer for GS1 Australia, expresses the organisation’s satisfaction in the enduring support for GS1 Standards. Standards-based traceability systems not only improve the quality and efficacy of our domestic supply chains but align Australian industry with international requirements, while also supporting sustainability and circularity outcomes. Our cherry industry stands poised to embrace these market opportunities under the expert guidance and support of Cherry Growers Australia.”

Year 1 of the project witnessed the successful implementation of on-farm traceability through RFID technology. In Year 2, the scope widens as CherryHill Orchards, an esteemed Australian producer and exporter, pilots producer-to-customer traceability. Harnessing GS1 Digital Link-enabled QR codes, export traceability gains new dimensions, bolstering the confidence of customers and stakeholders across the supply chain.

Paul Ryan, CEO of Trust Codes says “As we continue our collaboration in Year 2 of this groundbreaking project, Trust Codes is excited to provide advanced tracking technology, enhancing export traceability with unique GS1 Digital Link-enabled QR codes. This initiative exemplifies our commitment to transparency, ensuring consumers have access to vital information about the journey of their cherries from origin to table. Together, we’re setting new standards for trust and accountability in the supply chain.”

Stephen Riseborough, Director, CherryHill Orchards, reflects on the importance of traceability technology: “Cherries are the most anticipated and highly sought-after seasonal fruit here in Australia and in our valued export markets. Enabling traceability technology provides invaluable benefit through risk management and product assurance. It ensures that our cherries can be precisely traced back to their exact point of origin, demonstrating that they are indeed clean, safe, and reputable products.

For more information:
Gita Ricca
Cherry Growers Australia
Email: comms@cherrygrowers.org.au
cherrygrowers.org.au/traceability

Originally published via Fresh Plaza (Wed 27th Sep 2023)