SavingSeaFood - FDA Expands DNA Barcoding for Seafood Identification

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FDA Expands DNA Barcoding for Seafood Identification

In the wake of high profile reports of seafood mislabeling, the FDA recently announced it will expand its use of DNA testing in inspections of seafood manufacturers and restaurants. Proponents say this testing, known as DNA barcoding, will enhance detection of fish caught illegally or illegally substituted for other species, but some warn that such testing could be ineffective if enforcement agents don’t receive proper training.

DNA barcoding involves rapid testing of a small sample to see if its genetic makeup matches with genetic markers of a species.

A group of international researchers have launched the Barcode for Life initiative to expand DNA barcoding for field research and food inspection. The FDA is already using this method for some inspections and is working with researchers to create testing protocols and DNA reference libraries to expand its use. The agency has outfitted nine new field laboratories for DNA barcoding according to FDA spokesman Douglas Karas.

Conservationists hope DNA barcoding will help curb rampant mislabeling of seafood. Approximately 1/3 of seafood sold in the U.S. is mislabeled, estimates Margot Stiles, a marine scientist with Oceana, a marine-conservation organization. Often, an off-limits species or fish caught outside of catch-limit rules enter the U.S. market through deception, said Stiles.

Read the complete story from The Working Waterfront

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