Supply chain tracking importance

Food supply chain

Following the recent food recalls in the US due to the possible salmonella contamination, the case of better tracking within the food supply chain is being called on. The importance of supply chain tracking has been raised following the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) releasing a list of 56 products including soups, sauces, stews, hot dogs, gravies, seasoned snack foods, dips and dressings that may contain a food flavouring contaminated with salmonella - expanding a recall that began on 26 February.

Cost-effective technology that allows products to be traced through the US supply chain might have helped contain the spread of hydrolyzed vegetable protein products contaminated with salmonella, Intelligent Global Pooling Systems (iGPS Company LLC) announced.

The food flavoring in question, hydrolyzed vegetable protein (HVP), is made by a small number of companies. HVP is widely used in a large number of products, according to the FDA. This latest recall comes in the wake of a report this week by the Pew Charitable Trusts and Georgetown University that estimates food-borne illnesses cost the US$152 billion annually.

Efficient tracking

"A recall of this size can pose a serious threat to public health and underscores the need for more efficient tracking within the supply chain. Consumers must be assured that their food supply is safe.

"Better tracking using the latest technology such as Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), enables quicker determination of the source of contamination before these products hit store shelves," said Bob Moore Chairman & CEO, Intelligent Global Pooling Systems, to Procurement Leaders.

"Food and drug companies that take advantage of pallets with this RFID technology can quickly locate, and if necessary, divert products in these increasingly common and potentially deadly outbreaks. Congress and the FDA need to act to more aggressively to contain the risks of food-borne illnesses. Technology exists that can save precious time and prevent more tainted products from reaching the American public," Moore added.

Moore went on to add, "The US food supply chain is complex, and many ingredients often go from manufacturer to resellers or processors before ending up on store shelves. It is therefore critical that congressional action touch on all areas of the supply chain where improvements can be made that ultimately make the American public safer."

Jodie Humphries

Jodie Humphries graduated from Bath Spa University with a BA Hons in Creative Writing in 2008. She has worked for GDS Publishing for the digital group since July 2009. She has previous experience with writing for the web, running her own website since April 2007.

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