In 2026, labeling and traceability in the food industry are no longer simple compliance obligations, but essential technological infrastructure for accessing and maintaining products in modern retail. The competitive difference is no longer between formal compliance and non-compliance, but between digitalized operators and vulnerable ones.

The European legislative framework is clear. Regulation (EU) No. 1169/2011 on the provision of food information to consumers, together with Regulation (EU) 2017/625 on official controls, imposes strict requirements regarding traceability, accuracy of information, and the responsibility of the food chain operator. The European trend is toward increased transparency regarding ingredient origin and production methods, especially for meat and dairy products.

The economic mechanism is direct. Implementing digital traceability requires investments in ERP systems, batch coding, logistics integration, and electronic data archiving. Initial costs are significant, but lack of compliance excludes operators from major retail distribution networks. Modern retail requires periodic audits, rapid access to data, and the capacity to withdraw batches immediately.

European Commission reports on food chain safety indicate an increase in thematic controls and transparency requirements during 2024–2026. EFSA highlights that rapid traceability reduces reaction time in food safety alerts, transferring operational responsibility directly to the processor.

In 2026, the cost of labeling is no longer merely typographic. It is a system cost: technology, audits, specialized staff, and continuous updating of information. Smaller operators without integrated digitalization bear proportionally higher costs relative to turnover.

The implication is structural: labeling and traceability are becoming real barriers to market entry. In the modern food industry, informational infrastructure is as important as the production line.

(Photo: Freepik)