Food News

Hare (Lepus europaeus) and rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) are often mistaken. We have developed and validated a multiplex PCR for the simultaneous detection of field hare and rabbit.

The traceability of food and feed has become an important factor for consumers. This also includes the correct declaration of the raw materials and ingredients contained.

In the manufacturing process for food and feed, the replacement of an "ingredient" by a cheaper one can be an economic advantage over other producers. On the plate, a small leg of young rabbit can no longer be reliably distinguished from a large rabbit leg. In pet food the distinction becomes even more difficult.

However, fraud is not always behind it. In the case of rabbit and hare there is at least a great similarity. In the best case it is only a declaration error, but also an intentional mix-up for economic reasons cannot always be excluded.

AGROLAB can now ensure the correct declaration by differentiating the animal species of hare and rabbit using multiplex PCR. With this analysis, processors of rabbit and rabbit meat as well as distributors are on the safe side and offer their customers what the packaging promises.

Link: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/

Author: Dr. Frank Mörsberger