Determination techniques of the geographical origins of agricultural products by elemental and heavy element isotopic compositions

Abstract

Food labeling with a geographical identification gathers considerable concern from consumers, and is key information to select commodities. However, such labeling has sometimes been used fraudulently for financial gain. Thus, correct labeling is needed to maintain the reliability of food. Geographical identification is also used for a brandying strategy purpose. To maintain a brand with a high advantage, fraudulent labeling has to be eliminated. Various studies that scientifically determine the geographical origin of food have been conducted for the purpose of detecting erroneous indication. Techniques based on multielement composition obtained by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry were put into the first practical use as an origin-determination-technique in Japan. In this paper, the techniques are expounded on how to have been developed. As other factors, heavy element isotopic ratios permit reliable determination, because the exchangeable isotopic ratios of a habitat can be transferred to crops without mass fractionation. Since a technique with isotopic ratios of Sr and Pb as heavy elements eventually had reached practical applications, the latest research achievements are introduced in the article. © 2014 The Japan Society for Analytical Chemistry.