Verifying the origin of food: An introduction

This chapter provides an introduction into why analytical methods and systems are needed to verify the origin of our food, in particular the drivers for the work, in terms of regulatory and more recently consumer and industry requirements. Some of the difficulties in satisfying regulatory aspects are described as well as a brief look at how some of the most recent scientific developments not included in the main body of this book will impact on the way consumers can be assured about the origin of the food they eat.