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Produce Traceability Initiative

PTI Labels for Produce Traceability

Support produce traceability from the grower to the grocery store with barcode labels designed to identify cases, communicate product information, and help connect produce shipments throughout the supply chain.

Traceability from Field to Fork

Make Produce Identification Easier to Track

The Produce Traceability Initiative (PTI) is an industry-wide effort focused on improving the identification and traceability of fresh produce. PTI labels can carry barcode and human-readable information that helps supply chain partners identify produce cases as they move from the field through distribution and into retail environments.

BarcodeFactory offers PTI label options for reusable plastic containers (RPCs), cardboard cases, pallets, and other produce packaging applications. We can also help you identify a label option for your application and discuss custom requirements.

Example of PTI produce traceability label information

Case Identification

Use barcode and printed information to help identify produce cases throughout the supply chain.

Readable Product Details

Present product names, pack information, dates, and other applicable details on the label.

Application-Specific Labels

Choose label materials and formats suited to reusable containers, cardboard cases, or pallet identification.

Label Planning

PTI Label Content Guidelines

PTI label content depends on the product, trading partners, and applicable industry requirements. The elements below summarize information commonly considered when planning a produce traceability label.

  • GS1-128 barcode and GTIN The barcode may encode a Global Trade Item Number (GTIN) and other applicable information, such as a lot number. Confirm barcode data structure and application identifiers against current GS1 guidance. Brand owners should provide their GTINs and associated product data to their trading partners.
  • Human-readable information Printed text allows people to identify the product and interpret important label details. Uppercase text is commonly used where practical, provided the information remains clear and legible.
  • Pack style and quantity Include pack-style details beneath or near the product name where required, such as pack quantity, count, or weight.
  • Pack date Include the required pack-date information in a clear, consistent format. Date format and placement should be verified against the current requirements for your application.
  • Country of origin Include country-of-origin information where required, such as “Product of the USA.”
  • Packer or shipper information Depending on the application, identify the packer or shipper with details such as company name, city, state, and other relevant information. A company logo may also be included.
  • Voice Pick Code, where applicable Some operations use a numeric Voice Pick Code with voice-directed warehouse workflows. The code and its relationship to the GTIN, lot number, and date must be generated according to the applicable system and customer requirements.

Before purchasing GTINs: GS1 company prefixes and GTIN assignment depend on how products are identified and traded. Review current GS1 US guidance before choosing a numbering structure.

Review GS1 US barcode and prefix information  |  View the GTIN assignment reference PDF

The linked GTIN reference is dated 2011. Confirm that it remains appropriate for your project before relying on it.

Available Label Options

IFCO-Certified PTI Labels for RPC Containers

These IFCO-certified 4" × 2" reusable plastic container labels use different printing methods and face materials. Review the specifications below to identify the option that best fits your application.

Each case is sold per case, with 54 cases per skid. Confirm current availability, specifications, and order requirements with BarcodeFactory.

Need a Custom PTI Label for Your Operation?

Additional IFCO-certified label options may be available. Contact BarcodeFactory to discuss your container, label specifications, quantities, and quote requirements.

Minimum order quantity for the listed IFCO labels: 10 cases.

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Choose the Right Format

PTI Label Application Types

PTI labels can be used at different levels of produce packaging. The appropriate size, material, adhesive, and information depend on the container and how the label will be used.

RPC IFCO-certified case label

RPC / IFCO-Certified Case Label

Cardboard case-level PTI label

Cardboard Case-Level PTI Label

Hybrid pallet-level PTI label

Hybrid Pallet-Level PTI Label

Corner hybrid case label

Corner Hybrid Case Label

Understanding the Common Label Formats

Reusable plastic containers (RPCs): These applications may require a specific label size, face stock, and adhesive that support the container's intended reuse and washing process. The listed IFCO labels are 4" × 2".

Cardboard or disposable cases: Case-level labels identify individual produce cases and commonly use a format around 4" × 2", depending on the application.

Hybrid pallet-level labels: Larger formats, such as 4" × 6" or longer, can be used to communicate information about a pallet containing multiple cases. The exact format depends on the operation's requirements.

Corner labels: These labels span two sides of a box and can help identify case contents. Depending on their design, they may be used for case-level or hybrid applications.

Planning Resources

PTI Software and Industry References

Use these resources to explore label creation software and learn more about industry identification and traceability practices.

PTI Labeling Software

Explore software options for creating and managing PTI label designs and their printed information.

Explore PTI Labeling Software →

GS1 US

Learn about GTINs, company prefixes, barcode identification, and GS1 standards for product identification.

Visit GS1 US →

Produce Traceability Initiative

Review industry resources and guidance related to produce traceability practices.

Visit the PTI website →

Need Help Selecting PTI Labels?

BarcodeFactory can help you review label options for your produce packaging and printing workflow.

Contact BarcodeFactory

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