Smallstock traceability pilot study evaluation

02 August 2023
Focus area: Traceability & integrity systems
Program stream: Product & process integrity
Project number: 2022-1139
This study examined the benefits of electronic Radio Frequency Identification Device (RFID) readers in sheep processing plants outside of Victoria. 

Five processors from NSW, SA and WA participated and are currently at different stages of validating the installation of RFID readers. All five are still trialling and making modifications to their systems. This project has highlighted that no processing plant across Australia is the same. Each processing plant has varying levels of traceability systems implemented. There is anecdotal evidence that ultra-high frequency tags and readers may have more advantages than low frequency. 

Outcomes from the pilot programs suggest RIFD technology, when fully operational, will:
•    Improve data collection from objective measurements and how that information is used to improve the business
•    Provide a pathway to integration of full carcase tracking
•    Use data measured along the chain to inform boning room decisions
•    Improve feedback systems to producers and deliver improvements to grid compliance of carcases in better meeting market specifications
•    Provide individual carcass feedback to producers to link with on farm animal data 
 
Previous in this focus area 23 January 2017 Animal welfare auditing Next in this focus area 21 April 2023 Smart box label verification technologies