Implementing the Guidelines

The content detailed in the Data Template can be integrated into existing tracking and data management systems or used as a stand alone tool for initiating tracking of consistent data conventions. Regardless of the system used, the elements of the guidelines should be used in their entirety and in the order specified in the template. Further guidance is provided in the Data Template Instructions page. The recommended naming conventions should flow through each transactional process. This continuity is supported by the implementation of consistent and aligned Case Label Guidelines.

Workbook Contents

  • Overview & Contents: Overview of the Data Guidelines Project and recommendations for implementation

  • Data Template Instructions: Detailed instructions on how to fill data fields in template

  • Data Template: Ready-to-use data template spreadsheet

  • Lot Code & ID Guidelines: Supplemental guidance on creating and/or using lot codes and product or business IDs

  • Case Label Guidelines: Recommended information to include on product case labels

 Download THE Data Template (xls) [coMing soon]





The Market Data Guidelines for Produce in Regional Food Systems were developed through a collaboration among USDA AMS Local and Regional Food Systems, Wolfe’s Neck Center for Agriculture and the Environment, and the International Center for Food Ontology Operability Data and Semantics. Funding was provided through USDA AMS Cooperative agreement #22-TMMSD-ME-0002.