High tech tags now industry standard
US - The latest tracking technology is now the cattle industry standard for B.C. producers.
2 January 2007
1 minute read
Although RFID tags were available at that time, bar code tags were considered more cost effective and became the industry standard.
Results of a 2003 BSE industry review identified tag retention as an issue and it was recommended industry move to RFID tags.
Inspectors note that if a health problem occurs, it enables health officials to track back to the producer very quickly.
RFID tags are small button tags containing information accessible through radio frequency readers.
Producers cannot read the 15-digit number on the tag with the naked eye. Most are inserting another tag for their own management purposes.
Handheld readers cost $1,000 and panel readers are $3,000.
Source: Star Journal
