To ensure the quality and origin of the meat on the consumer's table, Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste (São Carlos-SP) has developed a system of animal identification and traceability, the "TAG Ativo" - Active TAG. The method starts with identification of the animal as soon as it is born using an electronic tag in the calf's ear. A radio frequency signal activates the tag, which transmits the number of the animal to a portable reader capable of large-capacity data storage. The identification and traceability system goes beyond the farm gate, also functioning during the transportation of animals. It can be read with the truck in movement, providing an inspector with information on the number of animals, the identification of each animal, weight, age, origin, destination, time and date of shipment, and information on the vehicle.

The Active Tag is a patented technology for identifying and monitoring the movement of animals, and was developed in partnership with the Animalltag company. The electronic device replaces the paper documents required for the livestock transport, such as vaccination certificates. It is a low cost method, which automates the inspection process at animal health monitoring stations, even in remote areas without infrastructure. It benefits both the consumer and the producer - cattle management is made easier and the rancher's product is increased in value - as well as placing Brazil in a more competitive position.

The "Dia de Campo na TV" - TV Field Day - on the traceability and animal identification system was produced by Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste and by Embrapa Informação Tecnológica (Brasilia-DF), which are both divisions of Empresa Brasileira de Pesquisa Agropecuária (Brazilian Agricultural Research Company), part of the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Supply.

31 July 2012