Understanding Animal Identification and Traceability in South Africa
Farmers Magazine | 19.02.2026 13:02
Animal identification and traceability are critical components of South Africa’s livestock industry, supporting animal health, food safety, and trade compliance. These systems allow authorities, farmers, and stakeholders to track animals from birth to market, ensuring that disease outbreaks can be managed quickly and efficiently. Proper identification and traceability protect both farmers and consumers by providing clear records of an animal’s origin, movements, and health status. They also help maintain access to international markets, where traceability is often a requirement for exports of meat, dairy, and live animals.
