Federal investigators responsible for tracing food-borne pathogens are only able to fully trace 12.5% of food back to its original source, according to a report released yesterday by the Department of Health and Human Services.

Government investigators bought several items including eggs, milk, oatmeal, fruit, yogurt, and tomatoes and tried to trace 40 of the consumer goods back to their source. They were unable to accurately assess the source in 31 out of of 40 of the items purchased, and could find no record of the originating source in 4 instances.

Acording to the Associated Press, DHS investigators "found that the records many companies keep are not detailed enough. And one-quarter of the company managers were totally unaware of the record keeping requirements".

The ability to trace food as it moves through the food supply chain is a critical part of investigations into food-borne illness from pathogens ranging from toxins to bacteria.