Food fraud and clean label influence food authenticity testing

According to Future Market Insights (FMI), the global food authenticity testing services market is expected to reach approximately USD $10100 million by 2033, exceeding the approximate USD $ 6000 million in 2023. A CAGR of 6% indicates positive market growth over the forecast period.

With time, food quality fears and awareness have led to numerous methods for testing food authenticity. Growing demand for clean-label products and the move towards the consumption of organic foods have forced manufacturers to invest in advanced food testing methods.

According to FMI, the epidemic of economically motivated infestation (EMA) to overcome competition has forced governments to impose strict regulations on food inspection and authenticity, pushing markets towards a multi-billion-dollar appraisal.

With food fraud increasing, together with intentional ingredient substitutions, consumers are doubtful about the authenticity of food products marketed with specific claims such as vegan, free-form, organic, etc.

Allegedly, food fraud is seen in intentional ingredient substitution, misleading or false claims, and disruptive labelling. Consequently, food manufacturers have chosen food authentication techniques that differentiate their products from conventional offerings and capture a significant market share. Consumers’ growing interest in food safety and the growing trend towards clean labels may drive adoption.

The growing incidence of fraud, false labelling, certification, and adulteration in food products is one of the key factors driving market growth. It’s also relevant that consumers are becoming more knowledgeable about food quality, stimulating market growth. One method of determining the authenticity of meat-based foods is a PCR-based DNA test that uses a molecular technique to analyse meat and food products for precise results.

Using fragments of DNA that are extracted from the food-product samples, the test identifies each species within the product. This enables cross-checking of the authenticity of the product and verification of its claims. Other growth-inducing factors include the development of remote testing kits and analytical testing software.

Through efficient data sharing and early warning systems, FMI states that these solutions assist in maintaining transparent supply chains. Along with supply chains, several other factors, such as significant growth in the global food and beverage industry and favourable government policies, are expected to drive the market towards growth.