DNA analysis carried out in March of 2014 by FEM2-Ambiente, a testing organization established by academic researchers at Bicocca University of Milan, Italy, has confirmed that samples of Friend of the Sea-labelled products tested positive for use of the aquatic species declared at time of audit, and that no mixing was evident. Furthermore, the results indicated the species’ geographical origin.
DNA testing of Friend of the Sea-labelled products is an additional check to confirm accuracy and high standards of the verification process. Such analysis will be continued in the months ahead to cover all labelled products.
“Friend of the Sea’s exclusive DNA testing program,” explained Dr. Paolo Bray, director of the certification organization, “is further assurance for consumers and an important service provided to fisheries, farmers, processing and distribution companies for monitoring origin of supplies and sustainability in an indisputable way.”
Milan-headquartered Friend of the Sea is an international non-profit certification program for producers and sellers of products harvested from sustainable fisheries and aquaculture sources. Wild-caught fish passing muster must originate from stocks in non-overexploited waters, with no bycatch of IUCN red-listed species. It is mandatory for fishing gear to be selective and to have zero impact on the seabed.
Farm-raised fish or shrimp must be cultured 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. Finally, DNA tests are run to complete chain of custody verification.
Thus far over 400 companies from 50 countries have had products certified by Friend of the Sea.
