Traceability in the beef and leather industries remains one of the most complex and urgent challenges in sustainable sourcing. From ranches to tanneries to retail, the supply chain is fragmented, and the lack of standardized data-sharing practices creates silos that prevent the verification of deforestation-free, low-carbon, and ethically produced goods.

One of the biggest hurdles? Interoperability. Actors across the supply chain rely on incompatible systems, making it difficult — if not impossible — for information to flow from one end to the other. This not only limits transparency but also makes it harder for brands, certifiers, and regulators to validate sustainability claims. A global, interoperable framework could solve that — just as it has in the seafood industry with the Global Dialogue on Seafood Traceability (GDST).

In 2022, Wholechain and Rever, in collaboration withGS1 US, developed the firstData Framework for Interoperable Electronic Traceability for Deforestation-Free Cattle in BrazilwithIDH. This foundational work laid the groundwork for a broader global standard. On March 19th, 2025, Better Food Future convened leaders across the beef, leather, and fashion sectors — alongside partners like WWF, RFLCT,FAI Farms, and theInstitute of Food Technologists’ Global Food Tracability Center— to formally launch a Global Data Standard for Beef and Leather Traceability. The virtual summit, the event close to 100 participants including major brands, NGOs, certifiers, and industry initiatives.

The mission: align on definitions and map out the implementation work streams towards establishing the Global Data Standard. The proposed work streams include:

1. Traceability Framework Development

2. Pilot Testing and Implementation

3. Establishing the Verified Capability Test

4. Driving Industry Adoption and Advocacy

5. Formalizing Governance of the Standard

Initial pilots are already underway in Brazil and Australia, with early adopter brands working with Wholechain to test real-world implementation. The Capability Test — a verification tool for tech providers — is being refined as pilots progress, ensuring the framework works in practice and not just on paper.

In shaping this process, Wholechain is applying Better Food Future’s 5-Step Process to Accelerate Impact:

The effort is designed to meet mounting global demands for traceable, sustainable, and ethical sourcing — particularly as new regulations like the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) take hold.

If you’re a brand, solution provider, funder, or policymaker interested in shaping the future of beef and leather traceability, now is the time to get involved contact us at wholechain.com