Wisconsin Potato and Vegetable Growers Association

Standing at the forefront of the produce traceability initiative.

Produce Traceability Initiative (PTI)

PTI, or Produce Traceability Initiative, is a system that allows the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to trace a potato back from the consumer who bought it to the very field it came from within 24 hours. Successfully accomplishing this goal requires a series of computer software and hardware to be in place; computer programming that helps manage information printed on product labels that help make the tracing back of the product possible.

To keep things as simple as possible, Wisconsin growers worked together to pick one PTI vender. Not only did doing so prove to be the most cost-effective option, but it also was convenient for growers to work with one company versus several. This team-oriented approach really put the Badger State on the map. By working together, Wisconsin accomplished more in a short amount of time, which ultimately allowed each grower to save time and money.

Now, WPVGA offers each grower involved with PTI access to a Virtual Private Network (VPN). This VPN gives growers remote access to information from various shippers, which they need to print their product labels in a timely manner. It’s an extra step Wisconsin’s potato farmers are doing to ensure the produce they put on retail shelves, and eventually on your family’s plates are of the highest quality. It’s one more reason why buying local is the best way to go!

To learn more about PTI, call us at (715) 623-7683 or send us an email.