| Abstract: |
An unfamiliar concept for many at the start of 2017, blockchain now has sufficient interest from the produce industry that the Produce Marketing Association has formed a task force to follow its development and will be working with retailer pilots of the technology. Walmart brought blockchain to the forefront when it conducted a U.S. trial with sliced mangoes and in August partnered with IBM, Dole and Driscoll ’s to further test the digital ledger technology, which companies believe could significantly improve food safety and operational efficiency. Ed Treacy, vice president of supply chain efficiencies for PMA, will serve as an industry representative on Walmart and Wegmans pilots, to provide insight on how the technology could work for produce. PMA wants to ensure that retailers of all sizes are aware of blockchain capabilities. |
