Emerging applications for traceability systems and implications for consumers

The modified European Food Law (General Food Law) has been emphasizing on the need to increase consumer confidence through implementation of regulatory measures focused on increased traceability in food chain. The implementation of effective traceability systems can provide the basis of communication between actors in the production chain, and facilitate effective product recall when a food safety incident occurs. various approaches have been developed that have the potential to improve traceability of foods and food ingredients through different food chains. Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) can be a reliable way whereby traceability data can be communicated through different paths, through computer-to-computer or mobile phone networks, Internet, or private networks. Analytical techniques, based on molecular biology or isotope technology, can also be considered for the food quality issues or establishing food authenticity