New test developed to authenticate Aberdeen-Angus beef

DNA verification systems company IdentiGEN has developed a new test that can authenticate Aberdeen-Angus beef, allowing beef producers to safeguard the name and heritage of the variety.

The test was commissioned by Scotland-based Aberdeen Angus Cattle Society (AACS), as part of its plan to establish Certified Aberdeen-Angus Beef (CAAB) as the leading British and Irish beef brand.

Until now, a paper-based system has been used to authenticate Aberdeen-Angus beef; however, this technique is prone to errors.

The new DNA test analyses a swab taken during the time of slaughter, and tracks the animal’s origins all the way to the farm where it was conceived.

In addition, AACS has entered into a new collaboration with IdentiGEN, in order to further strengthen brand integrity and differentiate its certified beef programme.

Under the collaboration, IdentiGEN’s DNA TraceBack technology will be used to develop a reference DNA databank of animals that are eligible to enter the CAAB certification programme.

Using the databank, it would be possible to check the Aberdeen-Angus origins of the beef.

AACS chief executive Ron McHattie, commenting on the new technology created by IdentiGEN, said: "DNA TraceBack allows us to move our processes to different level, further protecting the integrity of Aberdeen-Angus and, at the same time, giving us a competitive edge in the marketplace."

IdentiGEN co-founder Dr Ronan Loftus said the partnership sets a new quality benchmark for the British meat industry and ensures traceability for all beef carrying the Certified Aberdeen-Angus Beef label.

While the original Aberdeen-Angus cattle were developed from cattle native to the counties of Aberdeenshire and Angus in Scotland, they are now bred in South America, Canada, the US and South Africa.

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Image: The new DNA test analyses a swab taken during slaughter and tracks the animal’s origins all the way to the farm in order to authenticate Aberdeen-Angus beef. Photo: Americasroof.