ScienceJuly 30, 2026
traceback
TRACE-bak
Definition
The process of investigating the origin of a food product or contaminant by working backward through the supply chain from the point of consumption to the source.
Etymology
The word is a compound of the Middle English 'trace' (to follow or track) and the Old English 'bæc' (back). It emerged in the 20th century as a technical term for investigative tracking.
In the news
In the article, the FDA uses traceback investigations to attempt to identify the specific food source causing outbreaks of pathogens like Salmonella. This is a critical step in isolating the origin of an outbreak to prevent further infections.
FDA continues investigations of several outbreaks
Read the full article ↗foodsafetynews.com