PLEASANTON, CALIFORNIA, U.S. — Traceability solutions provider SafeTraces, Inc. has launched a first-mile traceability solution for conventional and organic grains. Utilizing a DNA-based solution, SafeTraces said it now has the ability to granularly and accurately identify the source of grain, paving the way for food companies, processors and producers to improve food safety, quality assurance, fraud detection and sustainable sourcing systems.

“The grain industry relies on a 20th century supply chain model that has failed to evolve with 21st century demands for traceability and sustainability,” said Anthony Zografos, founder and chief executive officer of SafeTraces. “While consumers increasingly want to know where their food comes from and how it was produced, much of this data is lost the moment grain is transported off the farm. From verifying whether organic grain is truly from an organic source, or whether conventional grain has not been treated with glyphosate, to rapidly responding to food recalls, our ground-breaking first-mile traceability solution addresses these glaring market needs in a powerful, practical, and cost-effective way.”

SafeTraces said the traceability solution will be available on a limited basis immediately and commercially available later this year. The solution leverages SafeTraces’ patented, Food and Drug Administration-affirmed Generally Recognized As Safe materials, which currently are being used across the fresh produce industry.

In the produce industry, SafeTraces applies edible, flavorless, odorless DNA-based barcodes directly to food. In addition to the grain industry, SafeTraces said it plans to expand into the leafy greens and palm oil industries.