Which of the following tags allows for easier tracking of swine during the slaughter process?

USDA back tags are specifically designed for the tracking of swine throughout the slaughter process, making them the most effective choice among the options provided. These tags are typically affixed to the back of the animal and carry unique identifying information that helps maintain a documented chain of custody from the farm to the processing facility. This tagging system is essential for ensuring food safety, traceability, and compliance with regulatory requirements.

The use of USDA back tags facilitates swift identification of animals, which is crucial for monitoring health, managing animal welfare, and tracing potential food safety issues back to their source. This structured identification process aids inspectors and processors by allowing easy access to important data related to each animal.

In contrast, plastic swine tags, neck bands, and pearl beads may not provide the same level of traceability and regulatory compliance required in a slaughter setting. While these alternatives may serve various identification purposes, they do not align as closely with the structured tracking protocols emphasized by USDA guidelines during-processing procedures.