Using isotope analysis to determine origins of plant products
A technique is being developed by two institutions from the Dutch horticulture sector that will allow for the exact determination of the origin of any horticultural product, by relying on isotope analysis.
The determination of the origin of the plant (or other horticulture product) will involve analyzing the isotopes (atoms) of the product, as their composition varies significantly depending on location. Isotopic composition is strongly affected by local growth conditions such as temperature, soil type and humidity, making it into a potentially important marker.
Mass spectrometry – a scientific technique used to display the spectrum of the masses of a material’s molecules – could therefore be used to identify the source of a specific plant material. Additional research is required before the technique can be properly utilized in the horticulture sector, however.
The Swammerdam Institute of the University of Amsterdam and Nak Tuinbouw – the Netherlands Inspection Service for Horticulture – are therefore participating in the further development of the procedure. Additional funding is coming from the Dutch province of Noord Holland and the Chamber of Commerce in Amsterdam.
If successful, the potential technique could be used to map the isotopes of produce grown worldwide. Determining whether a product was indeed grown where the supplier claims it was, or whether mixing of some sort had taken place anywhere in the product chain, would also become relatively easy.
The technique could most likely be put to good use during a phytosanitary crisis as well, when determining the source of a contaminated product is all the more essential.
Source: Sierteeltnet 06 May 2013