IPB University Experts Build Smart, Fast and Practical Detection Kit to Ensure the Authenticity of Fishery Products

The fishing industry faces challenges in ensuring product authenticity, especially after processing that removes the physical characteristics of fish species. 

Misidentification can impact global trade, resource sustainability, as well as compliance with regulations such as Minister of Marine Affairs and Fisheries Regulation No. 61/2018 and CITES Appendix II.

Responding to this challenge, Professor of the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Science at IPB University, Prof Asadatun Abdullah, developed the Smart Detection Kit, a genomics-based rapid detection tool that is portable and easy to use without a sophisticated laboratory. 

“This technology allows the identification of fish species directly on site in less than an hour with the Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) method, similar to the COVID-19 rapid test,” she said during the Press Conference of Pre Scientific Oration of Professor of IPB University through Zoom Meeting (20/2).

Prof Asadatun added, this technology does not require complicated laboratory equipment. Even so, this kit can detect low-concentration DNA samples and is more cost-effective than conventional PCR methods. According to her, the combination of more practical DNA isolation methods, such as dipstick and direct lysis with the smart detection kit, further increases detection efficiency. 

“This will certainly be very useful in improving supervision and supporting traceability of fishery products,” she said.

Prof Asadatun continued that the two main innovations in this kit are Hi-Par Meter and Tru-Portunus. Hi-Par Meter is able to detect raw materials for endangered sharks and rays. 

While the Tru-Portunus innovation is useful for ensuring the quality of crab more accurately and efficiently. 

“The development in this technology also includes DNA Mini-Barcodes primers for species authentication in processed fish products,” she said.

In addition to supporting industry sustainability, Prof Asadatun also said that innovation also helps producers meet international trade traceability and legality standards. 

“The existence of this Smart Detection Kit can help the government and industry to improve supervision of Indonesian fishery products in the global market, while preserving the marine ecosystem for future generations,” she said. (dr) (IAAS/LAN)