Introducing the Drivers and Complexities to Tracing Foods

Abstract

Although there are several definitions of traceability, when they pertain to food, they generally describe information flowing backward and forward through the supply chain to understand product movement. Often this requirement relates to a food safety objective, but the information needed to follow a product through the supply chain is likely captured in several different places. Responsibility for generating, storing, and accessing traceability related information from farm to fork lies with many roles within a company, and many companies in a supply chain. The nature of supply chains, traceability objectives, and other nuances associated with food make it difficult to apply the approaches used to trace non-food products to the food sector. Although there are several drivers and enablers to improving traceability, currently each company needs to evaluate how these drivers motivate them to change their practices in ways that enhance visibility.