Danish level of traceability possible here too

DANISH rashers are traceable to a particular time, on a particular day, in the processing plant, whereas poor traceability in Ireland resulted in a 100% product recall due to a contamination scare concerning 8% or 9% of product.

“The Danish system is not labour intensive, but it requires capital investment,” Michael Berkery of IFA told the Joint Committee on Agriculture, Fisheries and Food inquiry into the food scare.

Irish Association of Pigmeat Processors’ director, Cormac Healy, said traceability to the day of production at large-scale processing level is possible, but all the way back to individual producer would present significant technical and financial challenges.

Agriculture Minister Brendan Smith, confirmed to the committee that his department would be examining the possibility of altering the pork traceability system, but warned of serious cost implications.

The committee has completed its findings and a report that will help identify any shortfalls in traceability and monitoring systems will be compiled as soon as possible.