A pedigree tag for tracking and validating authenticity of contents in a container includes: a radio frequency modem operable at a low radio frequency, not exceeding one megahertz, and including a full duplex transmitter and receiver; an antenna operatively coupled with the radio frequency modem; a programmable microprocessor operatively coupled with the radio frequency modem; a memory operatively coupled with the programmable microprocessor; a clock; and a connector for connecting a power source for providing power to the microprocessor; wherein the pedigree tag is in a form factor conformable to the container to which it is affixed.