Enabling Consumers to Trace Beef Origin across the Value Chain through an Android-Based Traceability App

Abstract

Aim of the study: The study's main aim is to establish a traceable beef production approach that collects and integrates data from beef cattle throughout the production, processing, and distribution phases. It was also intended to empower end consumers by enabling farm-to-fork beef traceability using an Android mobile application and QR code technology.

Methodology: Data were collected from 60 beef animals during numerous field visits across the beef value chain: production, processing and distribution out of Attock and Rawalpindi districts of Punjab province, Pakistan. Important attributes such as breed, age, origin, health condition, feeding regimen, housing, climate, meat processing and distribution practices were accurately recorded and integrated into the MeaTrax application. The QR codes were generated in response to entered information, scanned through android cameras and retrieved data PDF using smart technologies like internet and QR code technology.   

Findings: Statistical analysis showed that the majority of slaughtered animals were around two years old, primarily white colored, with an average 48 dressing percentage. This valuable information was made easily accessible to consumers through scanning QR codes and internet connectivity, ensuring farm-to-fork traceability throughout the beef value chain.

Conclusion: Based on the findings, it was concluded that end beef consumers were empowered to trace the origin of beef and access related information across the entire beef value chain using the Android-based traceability app. These results emphasized the potential of digital traceability solutions in enhancing transparency and served as a concrete step toward strengthening food safety.