Segregation and identity preservation
Segregation is a chain of custody model in which certified or compliant material is kept physically separate from other material at every stage, though it may be mixed with other compliant material. Identity preservation goes further, keeping material from each farm, group or origin separate.
Also known as: segregated · SG · identity preservation · IP · physical traceability
Why does it matter?
Segregation lets a company say that the physical product contains only compliant or certified material. For the EUDR, it supports the claim that the plots declared are those that produced the product, and reduces the risk of mixing with non-compliant supply.
How does it work?
- At purchase: only farmers with registered, assessed plots can sell into the compliant flow, and each purchase is recorded.
- In storage and transport: compliant lots are stored, labelled and moved separately, with a lot identifier.
- At processing: dedicated lines or runs, with cleaning between batches.
- In documents: every transfer carries the lot identifier and links back to plots.
Identity preservation keeps lots from each cooperative or farm group separate, which allows single-origin or premium claims and narrower due diligence statements.
Common pitfalls
- Segregating in documents while bags are physically mixed at the warehouse.
- Allowing purchases from unregistered farmers “for now” into compliant lots.
- Volumes exceeding the production capacity of the registered plots, a sign of laundering.
Farmer1st records purchases, lots and transfers from the farm gate so segregated flows can be proven, through its traceability and certification service.
Frequently asked questions
Is segregation required by the EUDR?
The EUDR does not prescribe a chain of custody model. It requires that products are deforestation-free and that all plots are declared, and treats mixing with products of unknown origin as a risk. Segregation is a common way to meet these requirements.
What is the difference between segregation and identity preservation?
Segregation allows mixing compliant material from different sources. Identity preservation keeps each source separate, so a lot can be traced to specific farms or a single origin.
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