The flow of information from primary production to retail trade
Currently, the data generated at the farm level in primary production cannot be utilised consistently throughout the food chain. Product information is already efficiently exchanged between the food industry and retailers using standardised codes, but the current goal is to determine how primary production can also be integrated into this interoperable data exchange model. The development project examines how information related to agricultural products and raw materials can be transmitted between operators in an efficient, comparable, and system-independent manner.
The project is testing a concept in which standardised GS1 codes are linked to primary production farms, fields, and raw materials. These codes enable information to be linked to the raw material and shared among food chain operators in an agreed format. The project also examines the exchange of information on processed raw materials between industrial companies.
Tasks and objectives
The goal of the project is to pilot a model based on standardised identification codes for sharing information within the food chain and to demonstrate a practical and easy way for primary producers to adopt GS1 codes.
The project will:
- test a model based on standardised GS1 codes for sharing information in primary production
- examine the potential of crop planning software, digital crop passports, and other systems to utilise standard-compliant codes
- research how, for example, carbon footprint data could be transmitted consistently among food chain operators
- harmonise data structures and data transmission practices across the food chain
- assess the model’s feasibility, impacts, and scalability within the broader Finnish food chain
- generate lessons learned and practical insights that can be utilised throughout the food chain
Project timetable
1.3.–30.11.2026
Project organisation
The project, coordinated by GS1 Finland and ProAgria, includes Apetit, Fazer, HKFoods, Valio, Mtech, Suomen Viljava, and representatives from the primary production.
