Mislabeling in seafood products sold on the Italian market: A systematic review and meta-analysis

In this study the results of a systematic review and meta-analysis on mislabeling in seafood products sold on the Italian market are presented The aim was especially targeted to answer the research question What is the mislabeling rate in seafood products sold on the Italian market?. Scientific papers (SPs), were filtered using predetermined inclusion criteria and data related to sampling and mislabeling was analysed. Samples were categorized according to their taxon (species, family order) or generic market group (MG), market form (unprocessed/processed), distribution channel and geographical area. Samples were considered mislabeled when the species found by molecular analysis did not comply the information indicated in the label. The mislabeling rate (m. r.) was weighted on the sample size and provided overall and for each category. In the 51 selected SPs (published from 2005 to 2022) the most sampled taxa were fish (83.8%): mackerels, cods, herrings, flatfishes and jacks were the most represented. Unprocessed fillet/slice was the most analysed market form (61.4%), and samples were especially collected at retails (76.5%). Ten regions were sampled, especially Tuscany and Apulia. The overall weighted m. r. was 28.4% (CI 26%-30%), falling within the m. r. range found at international level (Luque & Donlan, 2019). M. r. over the CI (>30%) were observed in 1) jellyfishes, European perch, European grouper, Atlantic mackerel and samples labeled as spinarolo, baccal`a or palombo; 2) Unprocessed fresh, processed salted and highly processed samples; 3) small distribution channel; 4) Southern regions. Significative differences in m. r. concerned taxa, distribution channels and geographical areas. Despite some bias of the SPs may affect the results (lack of sampling plans; poor data on molluscs and crustaceans; no standardization in m. r. interpretation) this is the first systematic review and meta-analysis that, synthesizing evidence on Italian seafood mislabeling, can support policy making for minimizing frauds impacts.

Automated summary

This study presents the results of a systematic review and meta-analysis on mislabeling in seafood products sold in the Italian market. The overall mislabeling rate was found to be 28.4%, falling within the international range. Significant differences in mislabeling rates were observed for different fish taxa, distribution channels, and geographical areas. Despite some biases in the selected scientific papers, this study provides valuable evidence for policy making to minimize seafood fraud impacts.