Science and Technology Science and Technology
Thu, January 8, 2009

Digital Angel?s Destron Fearing Unit Announces Introduction of 840? USDA-Approved CoolTags"


Published on 2009-01-08 05:55:13, Last Modified on 2009-01-08 05:56:14 - Market Wire
  Print publication without navigation


SO. ST. PAUL, Minn.--([ BUSINESS WIRE ])--Digital Angel (NASDAQ:DIGA), an advanced technology company in the field of animal identification and emergency identification solutions, announced today the introduction of CoolTags™, United States coded ("840"), USDA-approved identification devices, enabling livestock producers to comply more easily with new USDA-mandated country of origin labeling (COOL) laws. While there are multiple ways for producers to comply with COOL, including the use of private-sector databases, Destron Fearing offers CoolTags to those producers interested in the USDA tag option, with the added benefit of an innovative, streamlined order and delivery system.

"The 840 animal identification solution is the individual animal ID option with an added punch," said APHIS (USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service) administrator Cindy Smith. "Not only can it improve the ability of U.S. animal health officials to respond quickly to a disease outbreak, but the 840 AIN (animal identification number) also helps producers to simplify recordkeeping and reduce the number of animal identification systems they use." These devices can be used for all USDA Marketing Service programs, in addition to COOL laws.

"These USDA-approved devices, offered in combination with our new, expedited order and delivery system, should enable producers to take quick advantage of market opportunities associated with country of origin labeling laws," commented Digital Angel Chief Executive Officer Joseph J. Grillo.

In the past it has been a complicated process for producers to gain rapid access to these types of approved devices, due to a complex supply chain with multiple intermediaries and extensive USDA documentation requirements. Destron Fearing has simplified the process by creating a system that allows the producer to order tags from local retailers and then to receive the CoolTag product just days later via direct drop shipment from Destron Fearing. This system also simplifies the process for retailers while increasing ease of producer access to the benefits of USDA-approved tags. CoolTags are available as both visual and RFID-enabled products.

In USDA's National Animal Identification System (NAIS), identification tags and devices are used to provide a greater level of animal traceability in the event of an animal disease outbreak. The 840 tags can also be used for animal health programs, movement records, marketing programs, breed registries and genetic programs.

About Digital Angel

Digital Angel ([ www.digitalangel.com ]) is an advanced technology company in the field of animal identification and emergency identification solutions. Digital Angel's products are utilized around the world in such applications as pet identification using its patented, FDA-approved implantable microchip; livestock identification and tracking using visual and radio frequency identification (RFID) ear tags; and global positioning systems (GPS) search and rescue beacons for use on aircraft, ships and boats, and by adventure enthusiasts.

This press release contains certain "forward-looking" statements (as such term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995). Forward-looking statements included in this press release include, without limitation, those concerning expectations regarding the expected benefits of the technology.These forward-looking statements are based on the Company's current expectations and beliefs and are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Additional information about these and other factors that could affect the Company's businesses is set forth in the Company's Form 10-K under the caption "Risk Factors" filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") on March 17, 2008, and subsequent filings with the SEC.The Company undertakes no obligation to update or release any revisions to these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this statement or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as required by law.

Contributing Sources