Application of Gene Technology in Food Analysis

Food labeling is an important information source for consumers when selecting foods. However, we often hear news about mislabeling of foods. To ensure fair labeling, it is necessary to establish scientifically sound methods for classifying foods and to check the labeling. The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method, which amplifies a specific region of DNA, is very useful for food classification, particularly in cultivar identification. The PCR method makes it possible to detect material of animal origin in meats and meat products and to identify the cultivar of agricultural products.