We can define traceability as what it allows us to identify the situation of a product: its origin, its destination and how it evolves between both steps.

Traceability is a control mechanism and a requirement by the European Union for food or consumer products such as medicines or beverages. In fact, in the food industry, for example, traceability will allow knowing the origin in case of poisoning.

But… what is meant by traceability?

Traceability concept

The concept of traceability was born precisely in the chemical and food industry, when the need for control over the production and composition of products was concluded.

As a result, the development of RFID solutions was given rise to be able to control all the information of products or batches instantly, with a simple click and in a secure and permanent way without loss.

Obligations regarding the traceability of food products

Traceability obligations in relation to food products by companies are:

• Identification of the entity that has supplied them with a food.
• Identification of the companies to which they have supplied their products.
• Make this information available to the authorities competent authorities who request it.
• Properly label and identify products.
• Proceed to the immobilization or withdrawal of the product, in case there is a health risk.

The obligations of the Authorities according to the Law 16/2021, of December 14, of measures to improve the functioning of the food chain, are:

• Promote the implementation of traceability systems.
• Verify compliance with food legislation, and that operators in the food chain comply with the requirements specified in the norm at all stages of production, processing and distribution.
• Coordination with the rest of the authorities, defining action protocols in an emergency situation, crisis management and early warning systems.

Types of traceability

There are several types of traceability, the best known being two: ascending traceability and descending traceability.

Backward traceability

This type of traceability is the one that is able to “trace” the products from the current point to its past. Also known as backtracking. It is the follow-up from the supplier until it reaches the company. In this type of traceability there are several basic elements:

• Source batch.
• Destination.
• Receiving client.
• Product identification number.
• Amount.
• Means of transport.

For example, in the case of beef: its upward traceability would be to know the place where that cow was raised, who is its breeder, the date on which the slaughter, its batch or, if applicable, the expiration date.

Trace Down

This type of traceability is what allows us to know the future of the product . It is the well-known “forward” traceability.

Thanks to this type of traceability you can know the products shipped by a certain company and what their destination is.

A clear example is what Amazon does when you buy a product. In the purchase status section you can check if it has already been shipped, where it is and when it will arrive at your home.

Advantages of implementing traceability

Implementing traceability in a company is not only an obligation (in food products), but also an advantage for the business. In this case:

• Allows to know the route of the product both internally and externally in the supply chain.
• Eases identification depending on the batch. In this way, if a fault appears in any product, the entire batch can be paralyzed and removed from the market.
• Guarantees the quality and good condition of a certain product.
• Improve your brand image and improve the relationship with distributors and/or customers.

Why bet on improving traceability

When implementing traceability within your company, the most innovative option with the best results is to opt for RFID solutions.

Thanks to this type of system, you will not only get greater control, about your products, but also processes will be streamlined and you can focus on other tasks to grow your business.

In Kyubi System we have professional experts in traceability who will help you choose the best system for your business control.

Take another step and take control of your business.