TRACEABILITY IN THE U.S. FOOD SUPPLY: ECONOMIC THEORY AND INDUSTRY STUDIES

摘要: This investigation into the traceability baseline in United States finds that private sector food firms have developed a substantial capacity to trace. Traceability systems are tool help manage flow of inputs and products improve efficiency, product differentiation, safety, quality. Firms balance costs benefits determine efficient level traceability. In cases market failure, where supply is not socially optimal, has number mechanisms correct problem, including contracting, third-party safety/quality audits, industry-maintained standards. The best-targeted government policies for strengthening firms' incentives invest aimed at ensuring unsafe falsely advertised foods quickly removed from system, while allowing flexibility manner. Possible policy tools include timed recall standards, increased penalties distribution foods, foodborne-illness surveillance.