In food science and supply-chain management, a food chain refers to the sequence of interconnected stages and operations through which food and its ingredients move from primary production to final consumption [1][2]. It encompasses activities such as agricultural production, harvesting, processing, packaging, storage, transportation, distribution, retailing, and food preparation [1][2]. The chain also involves the production and supply of animal feed and materials that come into contact with food. Each stage can affect food safety, quality, authenticity, and nutritional characteristics, making coordination and control across the entire chain essential [1][3]. Food-chain traceability enables the movement of food products to be followed through specified stages of production, processing, and distribution, supporting hazard investigation, product recalls, and verification of origin [3][4]. The concept therefore provides an integrated framework for understanding food production and handling from farm to consumer.
- food supply chain
- food safety
- food quality
- traceability
- food processing
Food Supply Chain Traceability • Food Science • Agricultural and Biological Sciences • Life Sciences
References
- FAO. Assuring Food Safety and Quality: Guidelines for Strengthening National Food Control Systems; FAO Food and Nutrition Paper 76; Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations: Rome, 2003. https://openknowledge.fao.org/server/api/core/bitstreams/c3f3ae32-fd53-421f-949b-1a7326116c7f/content
- Codex Alimentarius Commission. General Principles of Food Hygiene (CXC 1-1969); FAO and WHO: Rome, 2022. https://openknowledge.fao.org/server/api/core/bitstreams/6866dc55-d2c0-48dd-a528-a4d634f1b0b4/content
- FAO. FAO's Strategy for a Food Chain Approach to Food Safety and Quality: A Framework Document for the Development of Future Strategic Direction; Committee on Agriculture, Seventeenth Session; FAO: Rome, 2003.
- European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). Traceability. EFSA Glossary. https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/glossary/traceability.