Step 1: Determine if FSMA 204 Applies

  • ☐ Identify all foods handled that appear on the Food Traceability List (FTL)
  • ☐ Determine your role in the supply chain (farm, manufacturer, distributor, retailer)
  • ☐ Check if any exemptions apply (very small businesses, farms below $1M in sales)

Step 2: Map Your Critical Tracking Events (CTEs)

  • ☐ Identify all CTEs in your operations (receiving, transforming, creating, shipping)
  • ☐ Document the flow of FTL foods through your facility
  • ☐ Identify all Key Data Elements (KDEs) required at each CTE

Step 3: Implement Traceability Records

  • ☐ Establish a Traceability Lot Code (TLC) system
  • ☐ Implement records for all CTEs (receiving, transforming, shipping)
  • ☐ Ensure records include all required KDEs
  • ☐ Establish record retention for 2 years

Step 4: Establish Traceability Plan

  • ☐ Develop a written Traceability Plan describing your traceability procedures
  • ☐ Include a description of the foods subject to the rule
  • ☐ Include a farm map (for farms) or facility map (for manufacturers)
  • ☐ Make the Traceability Plan available to FDA within 24 hours upon request