Tracing fish and fish products from ocean to fork using advanced molecular technologies

The ability to determine authenticity and provenance of fish and fish products throughout the international fish trade distribution chain is of paramount importance, and in many countries traceability in the fisheries sector is based on labelling rules. As shown by numerous fraud cases worldwide, however, and the relentless global problem of illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, independent control technologies are urgently needed to ensure appropriate implementation of traceability schemes. Here,we discuss opportunities and challenges arising from the rapid progress in research and technology pertinent to traceability. In support of an integrative approach, several technologies will be considered, though emphasis is placed on DNA technology as an approach witnessing major recent development