FDA Proposes Extension of Food Traceability Rule Compliance Date

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has proposed extending the compliance date for the Food Traceability Rule. The rule requires entities that manufacture, process, pack, or hold foods on the Food Traceability List (FTL) to maintain and share specific recordkeeping information related to critical tracking events throughout the supply chain. The original compliance date was January 20, 2026. FDA is now proposing to extend that deadline by 30 months to July 20, 2028. According to FDA, the extension is being proposed due to industry concerns regarding the time needed to implement new recordkeeping systems, coordinate with supply chain partners, and ensure interoperability of traceability data systems. Because the rule relies on a continuous chain of information across the supply chain, FDA determined that allowing all covered entities to comply by the same date is the most effective approach. Additionally, recent federal legislation directs FDA not to enforce the Food Traceability Rule prior to July 20, 2028. FDA has stated its intent to comply with this directive. This proposed rule does not change the requirements of the Food Traceability Rule itself; it only extends the compliance deadline. Products applicable to the food Traceability Rule include nut butters, and the Western Tree Nut Association will continue to monitor this rule as it develops.