Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
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October 8, 2025 Economic development
Seafood is one of the most in-demand food commodities on the planet. Per capita consumption has doubled since the 1960s, and this figure is projected to double again by 2050.
Rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals, they play a key role in food security and provide a source of income for millions of people. However, behind the scenes of this thriving market lurks a disturbing trend: seafood adulteration.
Substituting expensive fish for cheaper ones, mislabeling origin, and selling defrosted fish as fresh—these are all examples of fraud that can occur at any stage of the supply chain. Such actions not only mislead consumers but also pose health risks, ranging from allergens and toxins to parasites and pathogens. Furthermore, mislabeling can conceal the fact that fish were caught in polluted areas or that endangered species were illegally harvested. In a globalized world of trade and increasingly complex supply chains, identifying such fraud is becoming increasingly difficult.
Coordinated Research Project
To counter this threat, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), in collaboration with the FAO, is launching a five-year coordinated research project (CRP). Its goal is to help countries strengthen food control systems and implement advanced analytical methods, including nuclear technology, to detect and prevent seafood fraud.
As part of the project, the IAEA proposes using a range of scientific approaches, starting with the analysis of stable isotopes of carbon, nitrogen, sulfur, oxygen, and hydrogen, which reflect the ecological conditions of the fish's habitat. This allows for the determination of the product's geographic origin and confirmation of its wild-caught origin. Combined with methods such as X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, scientists can identify additives, differentiate species, and debunk attempts to pass off frozen fish as fresh.
Particular attention is being paid to proteomics, metabolomics, and lipidomics—techniques that allow the study of proteins, small molecules, and fats. This data helps not only with labeling verification but also in identifying food safety hazards. All collected characteristics will be included in reference databases, which will form the basis for digital traceability and control systems.
The CPI project builds on previous food authenticity verification initiatives and focuses on supporting low- and middle-income countries. It includes the development of standardized sampling and preparation protocols, the validation of analytical methods, and addressing knowledge gaps. A key part of the program will be training specialists, technology transfer, and the harmonization of national labeling regulations with international Codex Alimentarius standards.
Sustainable support for the industry
According to Debashish Mazumder, Project Manager for Food Origin Verification at the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, this initiative offers a unique opportunity for countries to join forces to combat fraud and build trust in supply chains. Nuclear-derived seafood origin information can not only promote fair trade but also support the sustainable development of the industry.
Over the next five years, the IAEA plans to publish scientific reports and share the results with regulators and industry representatives. In the long term, the project aims not only to ensure the authenticity of seafood but also to support small-scale fisheries, combat illegal fishing, and strengthen fairness in global food chains.
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