Traceability Key Terms

Term

Definition

API (Application Programming Interface)

An API is a defined way for one computer program to request and receive information or actions from another program. It specifies what can be asked for, how to ask for it, and what kind of response will be sent back.

Batch/Lot Number

A unique coded identifier that unites products/items that have undergone combination, transformation, or manipulation of one or more products. The lot number corresponds to a specific grouping of product. “Batch” and “lot” are considered synonyms by some firms.

CBV (Core Business Vocabulary)

A GS1 standard specifying a standardized set of terms for describing supply chain events and processes. Designed to be used alongside EPCIS to ensure consistent communication across entities and systems.

CTE (Critical Tracking Event)

Events in a supply chain where data capture is necessary to maintain traceability, usually at points of transfer or transformation.

Data Validation

Processes that ensure data accuracy and validity. Methods range from manual verification to automated system checks.

End-to-End/Full Chain Traceability

The ability to track a product and its components through the entire supply chain, from origin to endpoint.

Entity

A distinct object, place, or organization involved in the supply chain that can be assigned a unique identifier for traceability or data exchange purposes.

EPC (Electronic Product Code)

A set of data elements that define a product instance. Used to identify a specific case, pallet, lot, container, or other product grouping. Typically combines GTIN with a lot or serial number.

EPCIS Capture Interface

The API of an EPCIS server that allows internal recording of events. External events may also be pushed here, though this practice is unorthodox.

EPCIS Query Interface (Control & Callback)

The API of an EPCIS server that allows external parties to request traceability information.

Event Data

Information generated by a product as it moves through its supply chain.

External Traceability

Data exchange and business processes between trading partners that enable accurate product identification and tracking.

GLN (Global Location Number)

A GS1 identifier used to identify a party or location in a supply chain. GLNs can be assigned to physical locations, organizations, or sub-units such as departments.

GS1 Digital Link

A GS1 standard that connects identifiers to the internet, enabling secure and rapid access to product information by consumers and trading partners.

GS1 Digital Link Resolver

A service that interprets GS1 Digital Link URIs and redirects users to online product information, such as origin, ingredients, or authenticity.

GS1 Digital Link URI

A GS1 identifier expressed as a resolvable URI following the GS1 Digital Link standard.

GS1 EPCIS (Electronic Product Code Information System)

A GS1 standard for event-based traceability.

GTIN (Global Trade Item Number)

A GS1 identifier used to identify a specific trade item or product. Universally unique and globally recognized as a product code.

ILMD (Instance/Lot Master Data) Data

Data associated with all products derived from the same lot, such as expiration date, harvest date, or origin.

Internal Traceability

The ability to follow a product unit or batch within a company—from receipt, through internal processes, to outbound shipment.

Interoperability

The ability of computer systems or software to exchange and make effective use of information.

KDE (Key Data Element)

Specific data points that must be captured at each CTE to trace a product and its components through the supply chain.

Logistical Unit

An item of any composition established for transport and/or storage that must be managed through the supply chain.

Master Data

Core information about an organization, its products, suppliers, and customers that remains consistent over time (e.g., product descriptions or facility locations). Serves as a foundation for business operations and transactions.

Product Identification

A reference value, typically numeric, that typically represents product formulation and packaging characteristics assigned by the supplier (e.g., SKU or GTIN).

Serial Number

A unique identifier assigned to an individual item, distinct from all others, to track its specific journey through the supply chain (e.g. serialized cattle ear tag, case number).

SSCC (Serial Shipping Container Code)

An identifier assigned to any individual logistics unit that may contain multiple trade items packaged together for transport or storage. This can include cases, pallets, shipping containers or any logistical unit used for tracking and management through the supply chain.

Traceability Framework

A common set of shared practices for industry- or sector-wide traceability implementation.

Traceability Identifier

An alphanumeric code used to consistently identify a product, party, or location in a supply chain.

Traceability Solution

The software system an organization uses to manage traceability data.

Traceability System

The complete set of resources (hardware, software, infrastructure, labor, etc.) an organization uses to maintain supply chain traceability.

UUID (Universally Unique Identifier)

An identifier used to uniquely distinguish an object or entity. No two entities share the same UUID