V.RDA.0005 - Implantable RFID for cattle: commercial supply chain
The purpose of this study was to investigate the desirability and feasibility of an implantable plastic RFID (PIT device) concept for the purpose of animal identification in cattle in Australia.
| Project start date: | 01 November 2022 |
| Project end date: | 21 January 2025 |
| Publication date: | 17 December 2024 |
| Project status: | Completed |
| Livestock species: | Grain-fed Cattle, Grass-fed Cattle, Sheep, Goat, Lamb |
| Relevant regions: | National |
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Summary
Implantable RFID devices have the potential to be a reliable identifier for traceability. Based on the positive results that come out of the limited field trials completed under V.RDA.0004, it was recommended that further supply chain trials were undertaken to expand on this work to address the remaining adoption barriers for an implantable RFID device.
Objectives
- Investigate the potential of plastic PIT tags in cattle in commercial enterprises by conducting long-term field trials on a prototype device.
- Measure the retention and performance of the implanted PIT tags in different on-farm scenarios.
- Identify and investigate any supply chain operational issues that may arise, including further investigation into challenges identified for commercial adoption.
- Explore tooling requirements for the successful implantation and removal of PIT tags.
Key findings
- Plastic 22mm long PIT tags can reliably be implanted in the middle back of a bovine ear using a single shot applicator device.
- PIT tag retention after being implanted for at least 12 months was 96.3% at the representative northern beef production operation and 76.8% at the southern beef production operation.
- PIT tag readability was inconsistent with a wand reader due to some combination of transponder unreliability and variation between different readers.
Benefits to industry
Lifetime traceability is being compromised by tag problems (losses, non-reconciled breeder tags and tag damage) which costs the industry around $10 million per year. Effective traceability systems can mitigate a significantly higher economic value risk of up to $2 billion in the event of a disease outbreak. Implantable RFID devices have the potential to close these biosecurity gaps and improve the retention and performance of identification technologies to support lifetime traceability.
MLA action
Peak bodies and research organisations, like MLA, play a crucial role by funding foundational research that lays the groundwork for industry advancements, providing funding mechanisms and governance to foster industry-technology partnerships.
Future research
Deep engagement by technology owners and device manufacturers is needed to address the technical issues identified in this research, whereby these groups can conduct their own commercial diligence on the "tag for life" concept and the desirability of beef producers and regulators can be assessed.
More information
| Project manager: | V.RDA.0005 - Implantable RFID for cattle: commercial supply chain |
| Contact email: | reports@mla.com.au |
| Primary researcher: | The Growth Drivers Pty Ltd |
