Traceability (Product Tracing) in Food Systems Vol. 2 of 2 Economics Report. Revised

摘要

Improving the Food and Drug Administrations (FDAs) ability to trace a contaminated food product back to the source would allow the agency to conduct more rapid and thorough investigations. In addition, if a problem is identified, having a more rapid and effective trace forward system would help narrow the scope of recalls by more quickly identifying the specific facility(ies) involved throughout the supply chain and the product recipients. Hence, it could improve the efficiency and speed of notification time for firms involved in the distribution and sale of product. Reducing the time required before an intervention is implemented following a triggering event, such as an outbreak, will better protect public health, help reduce the economic hardship faced by affected industries, and maintain consumer confidence in the U.S. food supply following such an incident. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requested the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) conduct an in-depth review of the costs associated with implementing product tracing systems and technologies in the food industry. Per FDA request, costs of the recommended best practices in Volume 1 of this report were examined (IFT, 2009). More than 50 discussions were held with representatives from various sectors in the food industry. Information provided showed that most of the firms have adopted various types of warehouse management systems. These systems provide product tracing information that varies widely in breadth, depth, precision, and accessibility to other members in the supply chain. Many companies consulted consider product tracing an integral part of their warehouse management, logistics or accounting initiatives. However, none of these systems were developed solely for product tracing. Therefore, firms assign costs related to these business operations to product tracing, although many of these costs are not limited to product tracing specifically. Also, firms may often overlook costs associated with the additional demands for data collection and record keeping, and especially the additional labor required. Subsequently, product tracing costs, as assigned by these companies, vary widely and tend to be over- or underestimated. Additional discussions were conducted with providers of various technologies that support product tracing systems.