The global fresh produce industry faces many challenges, including banned product inputs, regulatory compliance lapses and traceability gaps, says Shreedhar Bhat of agritech SaaS provider Scalion Commerce Pvt. Ltd. “Such issues can impact food security, restrict access to high-end export markets and also decrease consumer confidence.”
Bhat highlights the role of blockchain technology in addressing these concerns. “An immutable audit trail at the unit level can enable farm-to-fork transparency for fresh produce, whether poly greenhouses or organic farms. This results in verification of authenticity, relaxation of regulatory compliance and the possibility of rapid and targeted recalls,” he emphasizes.
Since its launch in 2023, Scalion’s supply chain management solutions have been adopted by more than 100 food companies and farmer-producer organizations. “The benefits extend across the supply chain: farmers gain access to better markets, exporters reduce rejection rates, processors accurately identify contamination, and retailers build consumer confidence. »
© Scallion Commerce Pvt. Ltd.
Bhat shares the impact of blockchain traceability on fresh produce: “Exporters of fresh, frozen, pulped, sliced or dried produce have seen a reduction in export refusals and improved access to high-value overseas markets. The platform also helps coffee exporters demonstrate compliance with international standards such as EUDR, which are essential for trade in Europe. He further explains: “Other features such as satellite imagery, RFID-based case tracking, automation of packaging lines using IoT, warehouse and logistics management, all cover complete traceability of the upstream and downstream supply chain. »
Government agencies are also interested in the potential of blockchain, Bhat mentions. “Government agencies are really taking notice. They want to prevent banned or unapproved products and items without quarantine approval from reaching their borders. Blockchain can ensure that only compliant products get through,” he adds.
© Scallion Commerce Pvt. Ltd.
Bhat also points out that the demand for blockchain-based traceability is stronger where food safety regulations are strict, including in the European Union, the Middle East and North America. “Certification programs such as GlobalGAP, FSSC 22000 and the EU Deforestation Regulation are driving adoption by producers of fresh fruits, spices and specialty crops. »
Looking ahead, Bhat expects demand for traceability solutions to increase with increased regulations and consumer demand. In the meantime, “Scallion is focused on expanding adoption, particularly in emerging markets, and working with retailers and logistics partners to help small producers join global value chains,” he concludes.
For more information:
Shreedhar Bhat
Scalion Commerce Pvt. Ltd.
Tel: +91 99 01 577 087
E-mail: (email protected)
www.scalion.com
