I have always considered the level of traceability that exists within the fresh produce sector and this industry's willingness to take it on board to be highly commendable. Growers and the trade in the UK have taken a lead in traceability to a degree that other sectors could only envy especially as food scares have struck them, most notably the meat industry, in the last decade.

But then perhaps I would feel this way, I am not a grower after all. And if the The World Apple Report this month is to be heeded with its alarming picture of costs spiralling so high that they threaten to put producers out of business, these producers have much to fear when it comes to traceability.

Just as unthinkable is that the perfectly formed fully traceable fruit we enjoy could become too expensive, as costs of compliance in tracing more and more attributes are passed down the chain to the consumer. This could put the industry's products beyond the reach of lower income groups adding to their health problems and to the cost burden of providing health care. And aren't we trying to increase consumption anyway?

It is great to have food that we can prove is safe, but a balance must be achieved between proving and delivering.

Many producers must feel they are between a rock and a hard place: they must meet the demands being made of them to comply, but where will it all end?

This is where the whole concept of partnership comes into play. Indeed the word even features in the full name of EurepGAP. If producers and retailers really are partners in bringing produce to consumers, then it is up to them to strike a balance in the drive for traceability.

At the very least, there should be some considered debate on the issue at EurepGAP's Madrid conference next week.