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Abstract
This case study presents an in-depth review of network structures and costs associated with the
implementation of traceability systems in California leafy green production, distribution, and
retailing. The 2006 spinach outbreak is used to assess the economic impact of trace
back/forward response time of the LGMA system, an example of a tightly coupled, linear supply
network. Results suggest that the benefits of traceability systems may far outweigh the costs and
that costs vary significantly by technology used and by grower size. Implications are derived for
cost-effectiveness of rapid response, targeted trace back/forward systems in other types of supply
networks.