Food Safety Compliance Changes You Need to Know in 2026

Food safety regulations are entering a new chapter in 2026. With increased pressure from consumers, regulators, and international trade partners, food businesses must stay on top of emerging rules that go far beyond basic hygiene or labeling. From traceability to sustainability, compliance now touches every part of the supply chain.

Here are five key regulatory shifts that food industry professionals should prepare for this year.

1. New Traceability Mandates Under FSMA Rule 204

Starting January 20, 2026, the FDA’s Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Rule 204 will be fully enforced. This rule requires businesses that handle certain high-risk foods to meet stricter traceability requirements.

What this includes:

• Documenting key tracking events like harvesting, packing, and shipping
• Assigning traceability lot codes
• Maintaining electronic records that can be submitted within 24 hours

The goal is to make it easier to trace food during outbreaks or recalls. According to the CDC, foodborne illnesses affect about 48 million people in the U.S. each year. Improved traceability could significantly cut response times and limit public health risks.

🔗 Learn more from the FDA

2. Allergen Labeling Expansion in the U.S.

Since sesame was officially added as the ninth major allergen in 2023, food safety experts have expected more updates. In 2026, the FDA is reviewing additional ingredients for potential inclusion. Foods like mustard, celery, and buckwheat are being discussed due to international standards already requiring their disclosure in countries like Canada and across the EU.

Why this matters:

• A 2023 JAMA Network study found that nearly half of allergen-related recalls were due to undeclared ingredients
• An estimated 33 million Americans live with food allergies
• Undisclosed allergens are a leading cause of Class I recalls

Businesses will need to tighten up labeling, manufacturing controls, and supplier protocols to stay in compliance.

3. Eco-Labeling and Carbon Disclosure Requirements

Sustainability has shifted from a marketing feature to a compliance issue. While the U.S. has not passed a federal law requiring carbon footprint disclosures, several large retailers are moving in that direction. Walmart, for example, now asks many of its suppliers to report climate and environmental data. Whole Foods and other chains are following suit.

In Europe, eco-labeling is already being rolled out in countries like France and Germany. If your company exports products, you may already be feeling the impact.

Key consumer trend:
A 2025 NielsenIQ survey found that 74% of U.S. consumers are more likely to buy food labeled as climate-friendly. This number has grown steadily since 2022, signaling a shift in buyer expectations.

4. AI-Based Inspections and Digital Oversight

In 2026, regulators are using more technology to identify risks. The FDA and USDA are investing in artificial intelligence to improve inspection accuracy and speed. These systems analyze data from supply chains, facility audits, and even drone footage in agricultural settings.

In one high-profile case in 2025, an AI system flagged potential sanitation issues at a salad packaging facility two weeks before an outbreak occurred. Regulators acted quickly and avoided a widespread recall.

What this means for businesses:

• Data inconsistencies can trigger scrutiny even before an inspector arrives
• Internal systems must be accurate and up to date
• Expect less notice before inspections and more focus on digital records

5. Global Push for Harmonized Food Safety Standards

Food producers that operate internationally need to pay attention to a growing push for standardized digital food safety systems. Organizations like Codex Alimentarius, GS1, and ISO are working to unify traceability and labeling formats across borders.

What’s happening now:

• The GS1 Digital Link is replacing traditional barcodes with QR-code-like systems that hold more data
• Platforms like IBM Food Trust are helping suppliers manage blockchain-based traceability
• ISO 22000 continues to be updated to reflect global safety expectations
• HACCPTrax can track tools in use and real time data to reduce lost, damaged, or missing tools.

According to a Deloitte study in 2024, businesses that adopt digital traceability systems are able to complete recalls up to 60% faster than those using manual methods. This can reduce financial damage and protect public trust.

The food safety landscape is no longer about checking boxes. It is about building systems that can withstand audits, public scrutiny, and increasingly digital regulatory environments. The companies that adapt early will have a competitive edge in both compliance and brand trust. Amerisan can help you improve your food safety programs and reach your 2026 goals.

If your business hasn’t started preparing for these changes, now is the time. Schedule a consultation with one of our food safety experts.

Resources:

• FDA FSMA 204 Summary
• CDC Food Safety Data
• JAMA Network – Food Allergy Study
• NielsenIQ Climate Consumer Trends
• GS1 Digital Standards
• IBM Food Trust