Zaiko · Food and Beverage Retail Solutions

YOUR GUIDE TO COMPLIANCE

Understanding the FDA's Food Safety Modernization Act

The Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) 204 rule, also known as the Food Traceability Rule, represents a significant shift in food retail regulation. Let's break down the key requirements and how Zaiko helps you meet them as this comes into effect in 2028.

Supply Chain Traceability Requirements

The FDA states: "Persons subject to the rule will be required to maintain records containing Key Data Elements (KDEs) associated with specific Critical Tracking Events (CTEs)."
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‍In simple terms, you'll need to maintain detailed records of where your food products come from and how they move through your supply chain. Zaiko automatically captures and stores this information through our invoice scanning system, creating a digital paper trail that meets FSMA requirements.

Critical Tracking Events (CTEs)

The FDA defines CTEs as: "receiving, shipping, transforming, and creating food products on the Food Traceability List (FTL)."
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‍For retailers, this primarily concerns receiving and shipping events. Zaiko's system automatically records these events as they happen, capturing all required information through our invoice scanning and inventory management features.

Record Retention and Accessibility

"Records must be maintained for two years from the date you created the record." Additionally, the FDA requires that "electronic sortable spreadsheet containing relevant traceability information must be provided to FDA within 24 hours of a request."

‍Zaiko stores all your transaction data securely in the cloud, maintaining records well beyond the two-year requirement. Our system allows you to instantly access and export any historical records in the FDA-required format, ensuring you can respond to requests promptly.

Rapid Response Capabilities

Under FSMA 204, businesses must be able to respond to FDA requests within 24 hours. Zaiko's system enables instant access to product location and movement history, allowing you to quickly identify and respond to any food safety concerns or recall requests.

Manage Inventory with Ease

FEATURES

AI-Powered Invoice Scanning

The Zaiko app transforms any supplier invoice into actionable data in seconds. With just a picture of the delivery invoice, our system automatically extracts product details, quantities, and prices while standardizing vendor information across your operation. Always maintain accurate digital records for compliance and auditing purposes. As invoices are processed, your inventory counts update automatically, ensuring your stock levels are always current.

Compatible with Existing Systems

We understand that your business relies on multiple tools working together seamlessly. That's why Zaiko integrates directly with major POS systems, ERPs, and accounting software. Our flexible API ensures that no matter what you're using, Zaiko can connect to it, creating a unified operational ecosystem for your business.

Live Inventory Updates

Zaiko's real-time inventory management system provides easy visibility into your stock levels. Customer purchases from your point-of-sale system are sent to your own platform that continuously monitors your inventory and sends automated alerts when products reach reorder points. This can also help prevent stockouts while reducing excess inventory.

FAQs

Answers to popular questions you might have about Zaiko.

How fast can we go live?

Under 60 minutes with our team.

How often do we send?

1–2 texts/week tied to slow windows.

Will guests find it spammy?

Only opt-in members; opt-out typically <1%.

Do we need a specific POS?

No—start now; verify results in your POS reports.

What results should we expect?

Typical 10–20% off-peak lift in ~60 days.

Do we have to discount hard?

No—time-boxed perks usually beat blanket discounts.

Can staff handle redemptions?

Yes—guest shows text; staff applies perk.

Can we cancel?

Yes—month-to-month; cancel anytime.

Modern Solutions for Food & Beverage Retailers