Aspects of the present invention describe a method of introducing items into a distribution network. Before entering items into the distribution network, the item is placed in an identifiable packaging that has an identifier. The identifier associated with the item and packaging is stored in an item identifier database and then the item is distributed into the distribution network. Another aspect of the present invention includes the identification and authentication of the items received from the distribution network. These operations include first receiving the item and corresponding identifier from the distribution network. The identifier associated with the item is read and then cross referenced with the item identifier database. A determination is made whether the identifier associated with the received item matches an entry in item identifier database or not. The item is indicated as authentic when the identifier matches the entry in the item identifier database.