FreshChain Systems has successfully piloted innovative blockchain technology exporting end to end traceable whole rockmelons from the Sunraysia region supported by the Australian Government Traceability Grants Program.
Minister for Agriculture, Drought and Emergency Management David Littleproud said the digitised tracing of ‘Honey Kiss’ and ‘Sugar Kiss’ varieties from farm to major export markets in the United Kingdom and Canada was innovation in action.
“Exporting fruit that is traceable through the supply chain ensures food safety, boosts biosecurity and enhances the confidence of our trading partners and consumers,” Minister Littleproud said.
“I’m very excited about the potential applications of the technology used in this successful trial in strengthening traceability in horticultural supply chains.
“The blockchain-enabled traceability systems along with proper labelling and QR codes consumers can scan is a win-win for all supply chain participants.
“Our clean green reputation makes Australian produce valued overseas and we have to protect that.”
Member for Mallee, Dr Anne Webster, a member of the Standing Committee on Agriculture and Water Resources, said these exports demonstrate the benefits of blockchain enabled technology, with the products labelled with a QR code that consumers can scan to find out traceability details.
“It’s a shining example of the next generation of innovation of Australian producers, as they build on the strong track record of farmers taking advantage of market opportunities and finding ways to deliver high quality new products.
Greg Calvert of FreshChain said, “This is our first pilot of exporting rockmelon varieties with end-to-end traceability to Canada and the United Kingdom. It proves the power of traceability and enhances our export offering.”
“We have recently sent consignments to Canada, and now to the United Kingdom, with markets in Singapore and Hong Kong likely to follow soon.”
Brad Dawson of Dawson Melon Co said “This is about sharing not just our safe, delicious and traceable produce but also our farming story, and connecting with consumers in a new way.
“We must, as a fresh food community look beyond our individual operations and contribute to future proofing the entire horticultural industry and I believe that delivering blockchain end to end traceability is a significant step in the right direction.
“It’s amazing to think that we now have innovative end to end traceability of melons from Red Cliffs along the supply chain to London and Toronto.”
For more information: Traceability Grants Program website.