What Are PTI Labels and Why Are They Important?

PTI labels, or Produce Traceability Initiative labels, are barcode labels placed on fresh produce packaging to help track products throughout the supply chain. They ensure food safety, improve recall efficiency, and make supply chain management more transparent.

Below, you'll find exactly why PTI labels matter, how they're used, and why they're critical for compliance and food safety.

Why PTI Labels are Essential

PTI labels improve transparency in the fresh produce supply chain by:

• Ensuring Traceability: PTI labels use Global Trade Item Numbers (GTINs), lot numbers, and dates, helping trace products back to their origin.
• Speeding up Recalls: If contamination occurs, PTI labels make recalls faster, reducing health risks and minimizing damage.
• Enhancing Consumer Safety: Tracking each product reduces the risk of unsafe food reaching consumers.
• Meeting Regulatory Compliance: PTI labeling is key to meeting the FDA’s Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) and retailer requirements.

What Information is on a PTI Label?

PTI labels contain essential details needed for product tracking:

1. GS1-128 Barcode – This barcode consists of two key components: the GTIN (Global Trade Item Number®), which must be purchased through GS1 US, and the Lot Number, along with the Voice Pick Code. The barcode follows the Code 128 format, ensuring compliance with PTI label requirements. Brand owners are responsible for providing their GTIN and related product data to their buyers.
2. Commodity/Variety (Human-Readable Text) – The text portion of the label should be written in ALL CAPS whenever possible. If the product name is too long for all caps, a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters is acceptable.
3. Pack Style – Located directly below the product name, this section specifies the pack quantity and weight of the produce.
4. Country of Origin – Identifies where the produce was grown or packed, typically formatted as "Product of [Country]" (e.g., Product of USA).
5. Packer/Shipper Information – This section includes the name, city, state, and other details of the packer or shipper. It may also feature a company logo for branding purposes. It is also recommended to add a supplier ID number or UPC tracking number.
6. Pack Date – This must be displayed in a boxed area and include a three-letter abbreviation for the month followed by the numerical date.
7. PTI Voice Pick Code – The Voice Pick Code is printed on the PTI label and is designed to work with voice picking systems in large Warehouse Management Systems (WMS). This code is generated using a CRC16 algorithm, combining the GTIN, Lot Number, and Pack Date into a 16-digit number, with the last four digits serving as the Voice Pick Code.

Using Thermal Labels for PTI Compliance

Choosing the right type of labels is critical for maintaining PTI compliance. Many growers and distributors prefer thermal printer labels because they’re durable, cost-effective, and offer sharp barcode printing.

Why Thermal Labels are Ideal for PTI Labeling:

• Clear and Scannable: Thermal labels produce sharp barcodes for reliable scanning.
• Durable and Smudge-Free: High-quality thermal labels resist moisture and handling during shipping.
• Quick and Efficient Printing: Compatible with most thermal printers, allowing high-volume printing without downtime.
• Cost-Effective: Using thermal label rolls reduces label costs compared to other methods.

How to Choose the Right Thermal Labels for PTI:

When selecting labels, consider these factors:

• Label Material: Choose durable thermal label paper that withstands transportation conditions.
• Adhesive Type: Permanent adhesive is recommended to keep labels securely attached.
• Compatibility: Ensure labels are compatible with your thermal printer for reliable printing.
• Size: The most common size for PTI labels is 4x2 thermal labels.

Common Industries that Use PTI Labels

• Produce Growers and Farmers: Track produce from harvest to market.
• Distributors and Warehouses: Maintain accurate inventory management.
• Retail and Grocery Stores: Improve stock management and consumer safety.

Key Benefits of Using PTI Labels:

• Improved inventory accuracy
• Faster, more efficient recalls
• Enhanced food safety compliance
• Better consumer trust and transparency
• Reduced waste and costs associated with recalls

Make PTI Label Compliance Easier

Proper labeling isn't just about compliance—it's about keeping your produce safe, traceable, and trusted. If you’re looking for reliable, high-quality labels to ensure PTI compliance, check out our selection of thermal labels.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does PTI stand for in labeling?

PTI stands for Produce Traceability Initiative. It's an industry-wide effort to enhance food safety by tracking fresh produce from farm to consumer through standardized labels.

Are PTI labels required by law?

PTI labels are not mandated by federal law, but compliance is required by major retailers and strongly recommended to meet FDA Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) requirements.

What kind of labels are best for PTI compliance?

High-quality thermal labels are best due to their clear printing, durability, and compatibility with barcode scanning systems required for PTI compliance.

Why are barcodes essential on PTI labels?

Barcodes on PTI labels allow quick scanning and data retrieval, speeding up inventory tracking, traceability, and recall management in the fresh produce industry.

Can thermal labels be used for long-term produce storage?

Thermal labels, especially those made from durable thermal label paper, can withstand refrigeration and moisture, making them suitable for long-term produce storage and transport.