DNA-based techniques to check quality and authenticity of food, feed and medicinal products of plant origin: A review

Background: The increased attention in agri-food quality and safety has led to the progress of DNA-based tools\r\naimed to fight adulteration issues. Among the various molecular approaches, those ones based on molecular\r\nmarkers and DNA barcoding have been adequately validated, whereas new tools such as droplet digital PCR\r\n(ddPCR), isothermal amplification and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/\r\nCRISPR associated (Cas) (CRISPR/Cas) system are starting to overtake the performances of the former ones and\r\nto be applied in the agri-food sector.\r\nScope and approach: Herein, an overview of the recent advances and exploitations of the DNA-based techniques\r\nfor the authenticity and traceability of fresh and processed plant-derived food, feed and medicinal products is\r\nprovided, including research about the monitoring of contaminant and allergen presence. Moreover, the potentials\r\nand flaws of these molecular tools are also discussed.\r\nKey finding and conclusions: DNA-based technologies represent valuable tools for preventing agri-food frauds and\r\nadulteration of several vegetable products present on the market such as spices, extra virgin olive oil, wine,\r\ncocoa, and medicinal plants. The application of these methods can contribute to the protection of consumers and\r\nall stakeholders involved in the agri-food production and distribution.