Since 2007, the Hawaii Department of Agriculture has been working in conjunction with the USDA on implementation of a Radio Frequency ID (RFID) pilot program. According to the department’s website, this research project, aimed at developing practical food tracking methods, links the Hawaii Department of Agriculture with local farmers. The farmers place RFID tags in containers of food products. The tags then collect data on the time of shipment, temperature, and humidity. In addition, farmers enter data through the tagging system regarding which pesticides were used as well as planting and harvesting dates. This project could lead to implementation of RFID food traceability systems throughout the country. The data gained through this pilot program will aid the government in developing the most efficient and effective methods of tracking goods throughout the system. When a food poisoning outbreak occurs, this system could lead to a quick identification of the source, whether it be E. coli, Salmonella, or some other form of infection, and prevent additional spread of the foodborne illness.
