The food traceability system has given a helpful boost to the value of agricultural products, Premier Chang San-cheng said while visiting the Yun Chang Ranch and Beef Shop in Yunlin County today.
"Traceability gives farmers a sense of pride and it demonstrates responsibility for the products they provide."
Food traceability was first introduced in the nation several years ago to distinguish Taiwan beef from U.S. beef imports containing leanness-enhancing chemicals. Functioning like an ID card for food, the traceability tag increases the value of the product. Domestic beef is now selling at higher prices than the imports and has come into high demand, so it appears the traceability system has achieved its objectives, Chang said.
Yun Chang ranch, which raises cattle for beef production, set up a Taiwan beef specialty shop on May 5, 2011 under the guidance of the Council of Agriculture (COA). The ranch also cuts down on "food miles" by using locally produced potatoes, carrots and corn in cattle feed.
The COA launched the Domestic Beef Traceability System on November 1, 2012 to link information from ranches, slaughterhouses and meat vendors as well as to promote shops specializing in Taiwan beef. As of December 2015, the COA had provided guidance to 50 shops, which now bear the standard "Taiwan Beef" sign. Traceability tags on beef products have also been made available for discerning consumers who want natural products directly from the farm to their dining table.
Encouraging consumers to buy from local farms is a key strategy for mitigating the impact of global trade on Taiwan's agricultural industry, the COA explained. Food origin and product traceability certifications not only make production information more transparent to the public but also support the local industry by making Taiwan livestock products more recognizable and competitive.
The COA hopes the beef industry can improve its production capacity and establish a tracking system for the entire production process. By strengthening both its production chain and production ability, the industry will upgrade itself and become more sustainable.