The Texas International Produce Association says it is supporting the launch of the Fresh Papaya Addendum, which allows buyers to work with suppliers who prioritize food safety, traceability and quality assurance, strengthening their trust in papayas.
Created in collaboration with ProExport Papaya, the addendum empowers handlers and buyers to meet the most rigorous food safety requirements while ensuring consumer confidence in this growing tropical commodity, according to a news release. The document reflects certainty around food safety and traceability in the papaya industry.
This milestone builds on a history of collaboration between TIPA and ProExport Papaya, which developed the "Food Safety Best Practices Guide for the Growing and Handling of Mexican Papaya." The guide laid the groundwork for enhanced safety protocols, which have prevented a food safety incident associated with papayas since 2019, the release said.
TIPA says the new addendum takes these efforts a step further by linking the addendum to a Global Food Safety Initiative audit, such as PrimusGFS, confirming the presence and sound execution of food safety principles as is demanded by today’s supply chain.
“For over four years, the Mexican papaya export industry has embraced self-regulation practices to enhance safety and sustainability,” Hector Del Razo Vargas, CEO of ProExport Papaya, said in the release. “This new collaboration with Azzule Systems and the development of the Fresh Papaya Addendum provide our industry with a powerful tool to meet U.S. market expectations. By integrating this addendum, we can offer even greater assurance to retailers, foodservice operators and consumers regarding the safety systems implemented by our growers and shippers.”
TIPA said it lauds the efforts behind the initiative and sees the Fresh Papaya Addendum as a key resource for U.S. retailers and foodservice companies seeking to bolster their sourcing standards. This addendum allows buyers to work with suppliers who prioritize food safety, traceability and quality assurance, the release said, adding that buyers need only ask their papaya suppliers annually for their Fresh Papaya Addendum linked to their GFSI audit, as part of their regular food safety documentation.
Key benefits of the addendum include, according to the release:
- Tailored food safety protocols aligned with the unique needs of the papaya industry.
- Improved traceability for a transparent and secure supply chain.
- Enhanced market access for Mexican growers and handlers, ensuring competitive positioning in the U.S. market.
Growers and handlers interested in incorporating the Fresh Papaya Addendum into their food safety programs can contact their certification body/partner, the release said. Retailers and foodservice companies can access more information on the Primus GFS website about how this tool aligns with their sourcing priorities.