The risk of food fraud has heightened in recent years, driven by the globalization of the food supply and increasing competition among various sectors. Notable incidents include the 2013 horsemeat scandal in Europe and the 2008 crisis in China, where infant formula was adulterated with the industrial chemical melamine to falsely boost protein content, resulting in the deaths of six children and hospitalization of 54,000. In the United States, common fraudulent items include honey, olive oil, milk, saffron, coffee, and fish, meaning consumers may unknowingly purchase products containing other ingredients. For instance, over 60% of fish sold as “tuna” in the U.S. is actually a different species. This deception not only creates unfair competition for honest producers but also endangers consumer health due to the risk of undeclared allergens, mishandled unlabeled ingredients, or heightened bacterial growth.
Various fingerprinting technologies are available to verify the authenticity of foods like honey and olive oil. The U.S. Pharmacopeia produces the Food Chemicals Codex, which outlines standards and methods for detecting fraud across a range of foods and ingredients. For high-protein foods, PCR testing proves particularly useful, as it analyzes a sample of the food’s DNA and compares it to an established library of known authentic products. This method can uncover cheaper cow’s milk protein in buffalo mozzarella or goat’s milk and ensure the proper labeling of fish and meats.
In terms of ingredient authenticity, food companies and regulators must remain vigilant. Food fraud is likely to persist as long as there are unscrupulous individuals aiming to secure an economic edge for their businesses. As the food authenticity market is projected to expand from $5 billion last year to $8.3 billion by 2023, detection firms have ample opportunities to engage with this growing market. Furthermore, the importance of maintaining food integrity is underscored by the potential health risks associated with fraudulent products, such as those linked to kidney stones, where certain ingredients like calcium citrate may be misrepresented. As the market evolves, awareness and technological advancements will be crucial in combating food fraud while also protecting consumer health and safety.