Australian Scientists Unveil Handheld Scanner for Determining Seafood Origin and Production Method, Promising Breakthrough in Traceability," Proclaims Research Lead
Australian researchers have pioneered a compact handheld device designed to ascertain the origin of seafood, distinguishing between wild-caught and farmed varieties.
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Australian researchers, in collaboration with Australia’s Nuclear Science and Technology Organization (ANSTO), government departments, and Sydney-based universities, have introduced a groundbreaking handheld device capable of determining the origin and production method of seafood by analyzing its unique chemical signature. This device, a result of extensive research efforts, aims to empower consumers, retailers, and wholesalers with comprehensive information about the seafood they handle.
Associate Professor Jes Sammut from the University of New South Wales School of Biological, Earth, and Environmental Sciences, a key contributor to the development of the device, emphasized its significance in combatting seafood fraud. By detecting mislabeling and providing insights into the seafood's origin and production method, the tool seeks to promote transparency and ethical practices throughout the supply chain.
With over 60 percent of seafood consumed in Australia being imported, the prevalence of mislabeling poses challenges to both consumers and the industry. The new device offers a solution by enhancing country-of-origin labeling and ensuring compliance with regulations.
Furthermore, the device addresses sustainability concerns by shedding light on the legality of seafood harvesting practices. By accurately identifying the provenance of seafood, consumers can make informed choices that align with their values, supporting sustainable fishing practices and reducing the risk of supporting illegal activities such as overfishing and forced labor.
The development process of the device underscores sustainability, as researchers repurposed existing handheld elemental scanners for sediment analysis to analyze seafood tissue. Their findings, published in a study demonstrating the device's accuracy in identifying the origin of black tiger prawns, highlight its potential to revolutionize seafood traceability.
Erik Poole, Innovation and Technical Manager at Sydney Fish Market, recognizes the importance of technological innovations like this device in combating food fraud and providing consumers with trustworthy information. By empowering consumers with reliable data on seafood provenance, such initiatives contribute to building a more transparent and sustainable seafood industry.