Apple or pear growers, packers, wholesalers and exporters interested in further digitising their end to end traceability systems are invited to take part in a traceability pilot being run by Australian owned and operated FreshChain Systems.
North Sydney-based FreshChain is leading a pilot traceability project funded by the Australian Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment (DAWE) and supported by the NSW Department of Primary Industries.
FreshChain’s blockchain-based system is one of 16 projects to share in $4m in the first round of the Federal Traceability Grants Program, itself part of the Modernising Agricultural Trade Initiative.
The aim of the pilot project is to enable the adoption of a blockchain-based end-to-end traceability system in the horticultural supply chains in domestic and export sectors.
FreshChain is a fully integrated, blockchain enabled, paddock to plate assurance system enabling customers to verify the freshness and provenance of produce they buy.
FreshChain uses a unique, encrypted and serialised industry standard GS1 Digital Link QR code that can be applied at item, carton, crate or pallet level. The system is designed to be easy to use, effective and low cost so all growers can participate irrespective of size or current digitisation.
FreshChain co-founding director Greg Calvert said there was no minimum to the amount of fruit growers needed to commit to the pilot.
“It might just be a single export consignment to review the inputs/outcomes of the system and consumer insights,” he said. “It could alternatively be a domestic focus, but with a first eye to being export ready. Providing end to end traceability unlocks that opportunity.
“One of our goals is to reinforce Australia’s reputation as a global provider of safe and fresh food and assist our farmers to achieve premium returns.”
The Traceability Grants Program was launched by the Federal Government earlier this year to support projects that:
Improve agricultural supply chain traceability systems, including developing and trialling technologies that digitise information flow.
provide an advantage for exporters in overseas markets to assist them in maintaining their competitive edge.
Increase opportunities to export Australian commodities.
The project will run until 2021–2022.
Greg said the pilot had already attracted strong interest from growers across multiple produce commodities but that they were always looking for additional partners.
“We are seeking partners who see the value in further digitisation in delivering a competitive advantage and future proofing their operations for domestic and export customers,” he said.
Expressions of interest can be made HERE.