If you are claiming on packaging that you use an ingredient from a specific area how do you prove that it is?

Hi, 

If you are claiming on your packaging that you use an ingredient from a specific area e.g. "Sumatran Coconut" , how do you prove that this is the case?

I have previously worked with authenticity testing and origination for extra virgin olive oil, but i'm not sure the same type of testing is available for other ingredients?

Thanks, 

Rob

Hi Rob

My first response would be to approach your contract testing laboratory and speak to the head of chemistry department to see if this test is offered/available?, followed by a google search to see if it is offered anywhere in the world?.

If not I believe that the only way to "prove" (demonstrate) authenticity would be robust supply chain traceability.

When "GMO free" kicked off (all those years ago!) it wasn't possible to test soya lecithin for GMO free status, as you couldn't detect the protein in that matrix, so we were obliged to have full (certified) traceability to show the origin of the material..... perhaps your supplier would be open to this?.

I've used Eurofins' lab in Nantes for origin testing of fruit products using Strontium isotope ratios. Be aware that it's generally not as refined/developed as those for olive oil, so was really only able to say "this result is / isn't in accordance with the claimed origin", i.e. it's useful evidence, but couldn't necessarily test blind and unequivocally identify the origin.
Obviously it's very reliant on having a sufficient database of authentic results with which to cross-reference, so I'd get in touch with them to ask if/what they can offer in your specific case.

In general I agree with LesleySR on the traceability approach being the most robust option, and for these types of claims I use this whether or not any isotopic testing is also available.

Thanks both, this is really helpful! :)