CHALLENGES IN THE ADOPTION OF A TRACEABILITY SYSTEM IN THE HALAL FOOD SUPPLY CHAIN IN MALAYSIA

Halal and food safety are important issues nowadays. The issue regarding product recalls is not new and still happens, which involves halal and food safety matters. Other than that, the industries also lack awareness, knowledge, and the cost of implementing the traceability system on food premises. Thus, this study aimed to conduct an in-depth analysis of the challenges faced by industry player in adopting the traceability system in the halal food supply chain. The study adopts the qualitative method, where the data was collected through a semi-structured interview with representatives of the supply chain company. The gathered data were analysed using thematic analysis to understand the challenges faced in adopting the traceability system throughout the supply chain. The finding indicated that a traceability system is adopted to assure that information related to halal food and products is available and can be traced along the supply chain. It includes the information pre-production process, such as the sources and origins of the raw materials. As regards halal supply chain management challenges that food establishments faced in implementing halal traceability, its covered aspects of a technical system, logistics, segregation at shop shelves, distribution and retail records, and product recall. It is recommended that the food establishment develop and get acquainted with traceability technology tools as it is more effective and efficient in tracking and tracing the product.