For many years, consumer item identification in Canada has been primarily generic in nature, utilizing the industry-coordinated UPCs and PLUs. However, the industry is slowly transitioning to the global standards for identification using GTINs (Global Trade Item Numbers). At the case and pallet level, identification is also transitioning to these standards.
The resources below and elsewhere in this section will assist in an understanding of produce identification at all levels, but industry should also ensure they understand the requirements of each trading partner to ensure a smooth flow of products.
To assist industry in an understanding of the basics of produce identification, the following resources are available: