GenomeTrakr represents a network of laboratories performing whole genome sequencing (WGS),  a cost-effective and highly specific technique to characterize pathogens.

The FDA estimates that the GenomeTrakr program generates between $100 million to $450 million in health benefits each year through reducing foodborne infection.

FDA analyzed outbreaks of foodborne disease from 1999 through 2019 with specific reference to the Genome Tracking Network established in 2012. The analysis demonstrated that WGS can detect the emergence of multi-state outbreaks and to identify vehicles of infection and their sources in order to constrain outbreaks rapidly through product recalls.