Study develops a manual of procedures for the traceability of fish products through genetic analyses

Current challenges comprise an enhanced pressure on resources in order to feed the ever-increasing world population. This results in overfishing and expansion of fisheries towards previously unexploited species. In addition to this, illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing increases the current problems derived from overfishing and mismanagement.
Thus, authentication of fishery products is a central issue for both, sustainable management of resources and human health.
In an effort to develop a solid approach to fight issues related with species misidentification, DNA-based analyses have been demonstrated to be applicable and affordable for fish authentication. 
DNA analysis has also proved to be an additional tool in fighting illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing as well as fishing fraud by vessels operating in the regulatory area of Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organization (NAFO).  
As a result, a manual on appropriate methods and procedures has been developed to provide guidance on fish sampling and analysis by laboratories with appropriate facilities, to support NAFO members’ investigations and law enforcement activities.

To access the full study, click here.

To access the International Manual of Procedures, click here.