Standards Development

Scope

This document specifies a DNA metabarcoding method for the identification of mammals and birds at the genus or species level and allows the identification of a large number of commercially significant as well as exotic animals. A DNA segment from the mitochondrial 16S ribosomal RNA gene is amplified using PCR and then sequenced using next generation sequencing (NGS). The results are analysed bioinformatically.

The method is applicable to all matrices (e.g. mixed products, processed foodstuff), from which amplifiable DNA can be extracted.

It has been successfully validated in a collaborative study using a short read sequencing platform (emitted fluorescence detection) with DNA extract mixtures and DNA of sausages of known composition.

The method is also described using ion semiconductor sequencing but was not collaboratively validated.

Purpose

Ensuring food safety and authenticity constitutes a fundamental aspect of consumer protection, particularly in light of the increasing globalization of the food trade over the past three decades. The expansion and growing complexity of international food supply chains have necessitated the implementation of advanced traceability systems capable of verifying both the safety and authenticity of food products. To address this need effectively, the development and application of harmonized and standardized analytical protocols are essential. Such measures are critical to reliably detect and prevent food fraud.

Despite existing national and international regulatory mandates, food adulteration persists as a significant global concern. Common fraudulent practices include the substitution of high-value components with inferior or unauthorized alternatives, dilution, non-compliant processing, and falsification of geographical origin declarations.

Meat products are especially vulnerable to economically motivated adulteration, where premium species are replaced with lower-cost variants. Such practices pose substantial risks not only to regulatory integrity but also to consumer groups with specific health-related, religious, or ethical dietary restrictions.