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Food Testing >> Food Authenticity >> Molecular biology authenticity

Molecular Biology for Food Authenticity

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In partnership with Eurofins Analytics France SAS, our Authenticity Competence Centre, Eurofins Food Testing UK combines molecular biology expertise with our global network of authenticity testing specialists to deliver fast, reliable results.

Our molecular biology laboratories apply advanced DNA-based testing techniques to verify the species and varietal identity of food and drink products. Using methods such as DNA fingerprinting and species-specific PCR, we compare the genetic profile of a sample against our extensive, curated reference database.

Our experts can detect substitutions, mislabelling, or non-compliant ingredients, helping to protect both consumer trust and brand integrity.

 

Molecular biology food authenticity applications

  • Meat species testing; Detect undeclared or substituted meats, ensuring accurate ingredient labelling and compliance with UK/EU food law

  • Fish speciation testing; Verify that fish species match the product label, helping to prevent fraudulent substitution of lower-value species

  • Botanical variety testing; Confirm fruit, vegetable, and plant varieties, supporting origin and varietal claims in high-value products

  • Grain and cereal verification; Authenticate wheat, rice, maize, and other cereal types for both quality and origin control

  • Processed food testing; Detect animal or plant DNA in many cooked, processed, or mixed-ingredient products, depending on processing level and sample type

Advantages of DNA-based authenticity testing

  • High sensitivity and specificity; Detects trace amounts of DNA, even in processed foods

  • Broad applicability; Suitable for raw ingredients, processed goods, and complex mixtures

  • Rapid and reliable; Fast turnaround with validated, and where applicable, ISO-compliant methods

  • Robust results; Provides high-quality, accredited data to support compliance monitoring, brand protection, and due diligence programmes

  • Regulatory acceptance; Performed in accredited laboratories using validated methods, enabling results to support compliance checks and regulatory investigations

  • Fraud prevention; Supports robust supply chain monitoring and helps mitigate economic adulteration

Advantages of using the Eurofins network

  • Global reach, local expertise; Access to the world’s largest network of food authenticity laboratories

  • Regulatory alignment; Methods aligned with UK, EU, and Codex Alimentarius standards, supporting market acceptance

  • Comprehensive service portfolio; Combine DNA testing with chemical, isotope, and NMR profiling for a complete authenticity package

  • Quality assurance; Testing performed under ISO 17025 accreditation where applicable, with full traceability

  • Proven track record; Decades of experience delivering trusted authenticity results

Contact us

Contact Eurofins Food Testing UK to access our full range of authenticity testing and consultancy services by submitting an enquiry or calling +44 (0)845 604 6740