Traceability data management for food chains

Purpose The main objectives of the paper are to identify the needs in data that are considered as fundamental for the efficient food traceability and to introduce a generic framework (architecture) of traceability data management that will act as guideline for all entities/food business operators involved. Design/methodology/approach The traceability system introduced is based on the implementation of XML (eXtensible Markup Language) technology. In the first stage, the necessary traceability data are identified and categorized. In the second stage, the selected data are transformed and inserted into a five‐element generic framework/model, using PML (Physical Markup Language), which is a standard technology of XML. Findings The assessment of information communication and diffusion underlines that the particular model is simple in use and user‐friendly, by enabling information flow through conventional technologies. Practical implications The main feature of this framework is the simplicity in use and the ability of communicating information through commonly accessible means such as the internet, e‐mail, and cell phones. This makes it particularly easy to use, even when it comes to the base of the supply chains (farmers, fishermen, cattle breeders, etc). Originality/value An integrated traceability system must be able to file and communicate information regarding product quality and origin, and consumer safety. The main features of such a system include adequate “filtering” of information, information extracting, from already existed databases, harmonization with international codification standards, internet standards and up to date technologies. The framework presented in this paper fulfills all the above features.