What does traceability in animal products allow?

Traceability in animal products refers to the capacity to track and verify the history of those products from the point of origin, such as the farm, all the way through to the consumer. This system is essential for ensuring food safety, quality control, and the integrity of the supply chain. By being able to trace the journey of animal products, stakeholders can quickly identify and address any issues that arise, such as contamination or disease outbreaks.

The ability to trace animal products also allows consumers to make informed choices about the origin of their food, contributing to transparency in the marketplace. This traceability can involve detailed records of the animals' lifecycle, including breeding, feeding practices, health treatments, and processing methods.

Other options focus on more specific aspects of animal management or monitoring but do not encompass the broader significance of traceability. For example, requiring animals to be tagged before purchase is just one aspect of the traceability system, rather than a complete definition of it. Similarly, concentrating only on historical data of animal feed neglects the comprehensive tracking process that also includes movements and transformations from farm to table. Monitoring animal behavior during shipping, while important for welfare considerations, is not synonymous with the full traceability that encompasses the entire product lifecycle.