International Federation for Produce Standards
IFPS (International Federation for Produce Standards); United Fresh is currently involved in the establishment of the IFPS which is harmonising Price Look Up Codes and in the future, the introduction of RSS (Reduced Space Symbology).
IFPS AT A GLANCE
Objectives:
- In conjunction with stakeholders in the industry, to improve the supply chain efficiency of the fresh produce industry through developing, implementing and managing harmonised international standards.
- To act as a forum for comment and discussion on issues relating to international standards as they affect the produce industry.
- To make recommendations and advocate appropriate courses of action in relation to international standards that affect the produce industry.
- To develop, implement and manage an international standard for Price Look Up (PLU) numbers.
- The doing of all such other things as are incidental or conducive to attainment of these objectives.
Membership (two classes):
Ordinary members: National Trade Associations or groups of National Trade Associations (acting in a representative capacity) that are representing the interests of companies actively engaged in the fresh produce industry supply chain.
Associate members: Any individual or organisation associated with the fresh produce industry supply chain, but not operating as part of it.
Founding Members:
- Asociacion de Exportadores de Chile (Chile)
- Canadian Produce Marketing Association (Canada)
- Fresh Produce Consortium (UK)
- Horticulture Australia Ltd. (Australia)
- Norges Frukt-og Gronnsaksgrossisters Forbund (Norway)
- Produce Marketing Association (US)
- United Fresh New Zealand Incorporated (NZ)
Operations/Management (2006 - 10):
- Chair: United Fresh New Zealand Incorporated
- Secretary-General: Produce Marketing Association, US
- Registered Office: Peterborough, UK
Initial Areas of Focus:
- Industry Technologies - Product ID, application of product ID via RSS, RFID, etc.
- Traceability – harmonization of existing guidelines and standards
- Pesticides – information gathering regarding country-specific MRLs, legislative changes, implications for global trade, promotion of best practices, etc.
- GAP (Good Agricultural Practices) – harmonization of existing/proposed schemes, organic standards/certification, etc.
For more information on the IFPS, visit
www.plucodes.com
