DNA testing delivers positive results
Independent DNA testing on randomly selected MSC-labelled products shows that the MSC traceability certification requirements continue to deliver a very high degree of consumer assurance.
Of the 196 products tested in the most recent market sampling, 192 were correctly labelled and testing confirmed they originated from the species of fish identified on the pack. Samples were collected from across 11 different markets (including markets in Europe, Africa, the Americas, Australasia and Asia).
The four samples that were not correctly labelled were referred by the MSC for further investigation by the certifiers of the parts of the supply chains where the product substitution or mixing is likely to have occurred. Expedited audits have been carried out as a result of the DNA test results. In relation to three products the issue was identified and shown to have been resolved. In the fourth instance an action plan to facilitate identification and surveillance of future potential risks will be put in place. The MSC has also informed affected brand owners.
If certifiers identify breaches of the Chain of Custody standard, either during a normal audit or as a result of investigations such as those conducted by the MSC, they require Chain of Custody certificate holders to remedy any problems, so ensuring the robustness of MSC supply chains.