Revolutionary tech slashes herb & spice fraud testing times, boosting food authenticity

Cutting-edge technology can now reveal the truth of the adulterants in our herbs and spices

A new web-based portal is poised to transform food authenticity testing. Developed by Storm Reply for Bia Analytical, a leading UK provider, this technology significantly reduces the time required to detect herb and spice fraud. Testing times are cut from days to minutes. This advancement is crucial in combating the estimated £12 billion annual cost of food fraud, as highlighted by the University of Portsmouth.

Addressing the challenge of food fraud

Traditionally, authenticity analysis was time-consuming. It could take up to two weeks. This limitation restricted sample sizes and delayed critical decision-making. Bia Analytical’s new portal changes this landscape. It leverages advanced chemometrics, AI-powered modelling, and spectroscopy. Users receive instant results. These results are presented on user-friendly dashboards, accessible through standard web browsers. Professionals across different locations can now view real-time data simultaneously.

“Food analysis needs modernisation,” stated Rachel Grunwerg, partner at Storm Reply. “Bia Analytical presented us with challenging requirements. We developed a bespoke solution. We are pleased to have digitised the testing process, benefiting the entire supply chain and consumers.”

Enhancing testing capabilities within manufacturing

The portal integrates seamlessly with Bia Analytical’s handheld spectrometers, introduced in 2024. These devices enable rapid on-site screening for government bodies, food manufacturers, and retailers. This capability enhances audit and quality control processes. The system’s speed and accessibility encourage more frequent and comprehensive testing. This is essential for combating food fraud. The system is built on Amazon Web Services (AWS) cloud services.

“Food supply chains are inherently complex,” explained Simon Cole, CEO of Bia Analytical. “Fraud can occur at any stage. Faster testing is vital for food safety and security. We identified a better way. We provide access to our scientific models through the cloud. This increases testing capacity and allows our scientists to develop new models.”

Targeting high-risk commodities within the industry

The initial focus is on herbs and spices, a sector particularly vulnerable to fraud. A 2021 EU study revealed a significant presence of undeclared plant material. Oregano, pepper, cumin, turmeric, and saffron were most affected. However, the technology is versatile. It can be applied to other high-risk commodities, including meat, fish, soybeans, cocoa, and coffee, all of great importance to the food and beverage manufacturer.

Collaborative validation and future implementation within laboratories

Bia Analytical partnered with Reading Scientific Services Ltd (RSSL) for a critical beta test. This ensures rigorous validation. “Saving time on analysis can transform our testing process,” said Mark Wilson, Senior Group Manager at RSSL. “We are pleased to partner with Bia Analytical. This test verifies the system’s ability to integrate with our laboratory hardware. This partnership highlights key technical considerations.”

“The trials demonstrate the technology’s accuracy and security,” concluded Simon Cole. “We will offer the technology to more laboratories. This will improve quality control for manufacturers and retailers.”

This innovation represents a significant advancement in food authenticity. It empowers the food and beverage industry to combat fraud effectively. It also reinforces consumer trust. For more information, visit https://bia-analytical.com/.