FDA Announces Intention to Delay FSMA 204 Compliance Date

On March 20, 2025, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced its intention to extend the compliance date for the Food Traceability Rule by 30 months, pushing the deadline from January 20, 2026, to July 20, 2028. This rule, issued under Section 204 of the FDA Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), imposes extensive traceability recordkeeping requirements on businesses that manufacture, process, pack, or hold foods listed on the Food Traceability List.

GCCA is encouraged by this delay, as it provides much-needed time for pilots to be conducted, refine implementation strategies, and ensure members can prepare for compliance. The rule’s complexity has raised concerns about the burden it places on businesses. This additional time allows for further collaboration between industry stakeholders and regulators to address outstanding challenges.

GCCA has consistently advocated for a practical and effective approach to traceability that balances food safety objectives with the realities of supply chain operations. This extension provides much-needed flexibility for stakeholders to prepare, while continuing to engage with FDA on how to streamline compliance. GCCA remains committed to working with its members and regulatory partners to develop feasible pathways for implementation that minimize disruption while maintaining food safety and supply chain integrity.