Networked RFID for use in the Food Chain

Abstract

Much work has been done in the field of food technology and processing [on both the product and the supply chain side] to increase consumer safety and to drive towards increased customer satisfaction. However, there are still many concerns raised by both the consumers and the food standards bodies with respect to potential problems that could arise from unexpected conditions or when track and tracing in the food supply chain breaks down. The development of networked systems to ensure integrity of data throughout the supply chain are a key tool to provide the full traceability of food products. The addition of wireless identification technologies to provide persistent identifiers for food products will become a key mechanism to enhance the consumer experience. This paper presents the use of RFID track and tracing technology to help create a safer food supply chain.