DNA analysis carried out in March 2014 by FEM2-Ambiente, spinn-off at Bicocca University of Milan has confirmed that the sample of Friend of the Sea labelled products tested uses the aquatic species declared at time of audit and that no mixing occurs. High quality DNA could even indicate species’ geographical origin.
DNA testing on Friend of the Sea products is an additional check which confirms the accuracy and the high standards of the verification process. DNA testing of Friend of the Sea products will be continued over the months in order to cover all labelled products.
“Friend of the Sea exclusive DNA testing program”, explains Dr. Paolo Bray, Director of Friend of the Sea, “is further assurance for consumers and an important service provided to fisheries, farmers, processing and distributing companies to monitors supplies’ origin and sustainability in an undisputable way.”
Please contact Friend of the Sea for further information and to have your products DNA tested.
Friend of the Sea
Friend of the Sea is an international non-profit certification program for products from sustainable fisheries and aquaculture. Certified products are fished from non overexploited stocks and with no bycatch of IUCN Redlisted species. Fishing gear must be selective and have no impact on the seabed. Those products originating from aquaculture are farmed with respect of critical habitat and with no use of antifoulants and growth hormones. Social accountability requirements have to be complied with to attain certification. DNA tests are run to complete chain of custody verification. Over 400 companies in 50 countries have products certified Friend of the Sea.
