Radio frequency identification (RFID) transmits product information using radio waves.  The agri-food industry is beginning to use this automatic identification technology to enhance food quality, safety and traceability. RFID manages and updates information on food materials (ex: product identity, supplier, or serial number) as they enter and move through the farm-to-fork distribution chain.  
 

How does RFID work?

RFID in the Food Processing Industry   
   

A RFID system consists of three main components:

• Computer system

• receives the information from the reader     

• stores and/or interprets data

• Reader

• transmits and receives radio frequencies 

• How does RFID work?
   

• RFID Benefits
   
• RFID Challenges
   
• Related Links

• broadcasts radio signals which activate the tag
  to retrieve and/or update information

• includes portable hand-held instruments or stationary devices positioned in strategic locations (ex: loading bay doors)

• Tags

• transmit data on the tag’s microchip by a radio antenna

• may be read multiple times

• have read-only or read-write capabilities:

• read-only – tag information (ex: serial number) cannot be changed

• read-write – tag information may be altered or updated    

• classified according to power source as active (battery powered) or passive (no battery):

• Active tags: are outfitted with a battery to power the internal circuitry and radio antenna. They have a transmission range up to 100 metres and may contain sensors that monitor and record various conditions (ex: temperature). Active tags are limited by their battery life and are usually larger and more expensive than passive tags.

• Passive tags: are powered by a reader’s incoming radio frequencies which generate an electronic current to power the circuit and transmit a response. They usually do not contain sensors and have a limited transmission range of three metres or less. Passive tags are more common because they are cheaper and usually last longer than active tags.  

RFID Benefits

• Superior information handling

RFID tags are becoming the next generation of barcodes. 

• Unlike traditional barcodes, which require a direct line-of-sight for individual laser scanning, multiple RFID tags are read simultaneously when they pass within range of a reader.
• Barcodes only provide generic information, such as product class, while RFID tags uniquely label every pallet, box, or individual item. 

• Enhanced recall and traceability

Recent high-profile food security issues make rapid, effective recall and traceability systems necessary.

• RFID-generated records and databases allow producers to quickly identify and locate suspect products in supply and distribution chains.
• RFID systems/networks improve compliance with various directives including Good Manufacturing Practices, Can-Trace and the Canadian Food Recall System.

• Improved supply and distribution chain management

RFID is an enabling technology that improves supply and distribution chain management.

• Tag sensors monitor various environmental parameters (ex: temperature and relative humidity) during product transportation and storage. This critical data verifies that products have not been exposed to conditions that compromise quality and safety.
• Tag readings at the shipping and receiving points serve as a confirmation procedure that can minimize discrepancies and costly errors.
• Ongoing scanning of tagged warehoused goods provides real-time inventory data. This information improves first-in, first-out (FIFO) policies and shortens replenishment cycles.

RFID Challenges

• High startup costs

The initial costs for RFID computer software, reader(s) and tags are high and may be difficult for some companies to absorb.

• RFID commercial implementation is expensive, but the costs have been steadily decreasing and disposable passive tags are currently priced between US $0.07 to US $0.30 per tag.

• Training designated employee(s)

The time and money to train employees to implement and use RFID systems can be expensive. RFID vendors should provide custom training and information to help integrate this technology into their customers’ business operations.    

• Developing the RFID network

An effective RFID network requires supply chain partners to have compatible software and information systems to access, share and update data.

• The Electronic Product Code (EPC) is a globally managed RFID numbering system that identifies products much like a barcode.
• EPCs are unique identification numbers that match online databases for retrieval or modification of specific product information. 

• Emerging privacy issues

The data sharing requirements of this technology and even the possibly of unauthorized tag readings have caused concern over the loss or compromise of proprietary information.  

• Network designs ensure that only specific information is made available.
• Tag information can be password protected or encrypted to prevent tampering.  

• Accuracy of tag reading

RFID radio waves may be disrupted by environmental factors such as rotating electrical machinery, metal and moisture.

• Some RFID vendors can evaluate system performance and provide necessary recalibration to improve tag reading rates.
• Using different tags, especially battery powered active tags more suited for radio-challenged environments, improves tag reading accuracy.

Related links

• Can-Trace
• EPCglobal
• RFID Journal
• The Canadian Cattle Identification Agency
• The Canadian Food Recall System
   

For information on the Food Safety Program contact the CVO/Food Safety Knowledge Centre.  For technical information, call 204-795-7968 in Winnipeg; or e-mail foodsafety@gov.mb.ca. For general information, contact your local GO Centre.