Molecular Markers for Food Traceability

Paula Martins-Lopes*, Sónia Gomes, Leonor Pereira and Henrique Guedes-Pinto

Institute of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Centre of Genomics and Biotechnology, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (IBB/CGB-UTAD), P.O. Box 1013, PT-5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal

Article history:
Received August 16, 2012
Accepted January 17, 2013

Key words:
food traceability, DNA extraction, PCR-based methods, molecular markers, GMO

Summary:                                                                                                                                                                                 
DNA analysis with molecular markers has opened a way to understand complex organism's genome. It is presently being widely applied across different fields, where food takes a preeminent position. Constant outbreaks of foodborne illnesses are increasing consumer's attention towards more detailed information related to what they are consuming. This overview reports on the areas where food traceability has been considered, and the problems that still remain to be bypassed in order to be widely applied. An outline of the most broadly used PCR-based methods for food traceability is described. Applications in the area of detection of genetically modified organisms, protected denomination of origin, allergenic and intolerance reactions are detailed in order to understand the dimension of the performed studies.

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