Subject headings: supply chain, tracking and tracing, reference-data modellingThe thesis describes the development and application of a general information-system blueprint for tracking and tracing: a reference-data model. The problem statement reads: How can we improve tracking and tracing (with the help of modern ICT means) in such a way that food safety is guaranteed to a larger extent than happens at this moment (2003)? The objective of the research is twofold: (1) establishing the tracking-and-tracing functionality within an object system, i.e., establishing the supply chain, and (2) representing the functionality by data models so as to facilitate the development of information systems suitable for tracking and tracing. To obtain the research objective, the following five questions are addressed: (1) which elements characterise tracking and tracing, in relation to (i) an enterprise in the chain, (ii) its objective, and (iii) its administration? (2)whichfunctionality and performance with regard to tracking and tracing is derived from the enterprise in the chain? (3)whichdata models are fit for an adequate representation of the functionality? (4)whichreference-data model can be successfully constructed? (5)whatis the evaluation of the application of the reference model?