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IBM Tracks Pork Chops From Pig To Plate

dcblogs writes "IBM is deploying technology in China that allows meat suppliers to track a single pig all the way from farm animal to pork chop. Pigs are initially identified with a barcoded ear tag. This identification is then put on bins used to track the various pig parts as they pass through the slaughterhouse, processing plant, distribution center and finally to the clear plastic-wrapped package in a grocer's case. If a consumer buys three pork chops in a package, 'you know that these three pieces of pork chop came from pig number 123,' said Paul Chang, who leads global strategy for emerging technologies at IBM. The goal is to control disease outbreaks, but theoretically this technology could allow a grocer to put a picture on the store package of the pig you are eating."

4 of 216 comments (clear)

  1. His name was Wilbur by dethndrek · · Score: 5, Funny

    "He liked spiders, and was a pretty stupendous pig."

    --
    -JWR
  2. Re:This is going to get complex(and long)... by Joehonkie · · Score: 5, Funny

    Your hot dog was composed of the pigs, earthworms, and insects pictured below:

  3. Re:First Yea!!! by fuzzyfuzzyfungus · · Score: 5, Funny

    Dear Cayenne8,

    We in the agriculture and food processing industry take customer satisfaction extremely seriously. For a small additional packaging fee, we would be delighted to ensure that your food has been locally produced in the location of your choice and certified to whatever standard you desire by whatever certification bodies you trust most. Our graphics department may require 8-10 additional business days for certification logos not already in our library, and 4-colour printing is extra.

    To suit the requirements of today's environmentally sensitive customer, we are proud to label all our products as being sustainably derived from non-endangered species, or endangered species whose tissues are indistinguishable by any test likely to be employed by the customs agents of your jurisdiction.

    Sincerely Yours,
    The Supply Chain.

  4. Re:The real goal by bhcompy · · Score: 5, Funny

    That's why you should eat racehorses. Parentage on racehorses is highly documented.