European Experts Unite to Combat Food Fraud
Amsterdam, Tuesday, 23 September 2025.
Europe’s leading food safety experts are developing innovative tools to combat food fraud, enhancing transparency from farm to butcher, as showcased in Euronews’ ‘The Food Detectives’ series.
Innovative Tools for Ensuring Food Integrity
In a concerted effort to safeguard food authenticity, Europe’s top experts in food safety have developed cutting-edge tools and techniques to combat fraud. Donato Andueza from the French agricultural research organization INRAE has invented a portable device resembling a backpack. This device employs infrared spectroscopy to verify whether beef is genuinely grass-fed, a significant concern given the deceptive practices of passing off grain-fed cattle as grass-fed [1][2].
Molecular Analysis for Enhanced Accuracy
At the Max Rubner Institute in Kulmbach, Germany, food detectives are advancing molecular analysis techniques to scrutinize meat with unparalleled precision. These methods are designed to outdo rapid tests, addressing the critical issue of accuracy, as inaccurate methods can lead to both false accusations and oversights in detecting adulterated samples [1][3].
Hydrogen-Powered Innovations
While food fraud detection remains the primary focus, the series also highlights the importance of sustainable practices in the food industry. An example of innovation beyond food safety is the planned production of a hydrogen-powered BMW X5 by 2028, illustrating the broader context of sustainable development alongside food integrity efforts [1].
Collaborative Efforts and Future Directions
The series, presented by Euronews in collaboration with Watson, spans six episodes, each delving into different aspects of food fraud and authenticity. By engaging with experts, producers, and communities, ‘The Food Detectives’ aims to build consumer trust and promote transparency in the food industry. This initiative not only enhances consumer protection but also supports the transition towards more sustainable food production systems [3][4][5].