DNA barcode identification of shark fillet reveals fraudulent commerce in Brazil

Abstract

Abstract Fraudulent mislabeling of fish products has been reported with some frequency, representing an important problem in the food industry and regulatory agencies of many countries. This case reports a fraudulent substitution of shark fillets for the much cheaper Striped-catfish, in a large purchase for public elementary school meals in a Brazilian town. The economic and nutritional aspects involving such mislabeling demonstrate a serious fraud that should alarm governmental regulatory agencies to implement a more rigorous and frequent monitoring system on the species verification to guarantee the safety and quality of seafood.