PCR-based methodology for the authentication of the Atlantic mackerel Scomber scombrus in commercial canned products

A multiplex-PCR assay for the authentication of the Atlantic mackerel Scomber scombrus in commercial canned products has been developed. This novel method consists of a S. scombrus-specific fragment (123 bp) corresponding to the mitochondrial NADH dehydrogenase subunit 5, and a positive amplification control corresponding to the small rRNA 12S subunit (188 bp). The system was assayed using six different canned products labeled as S. scombrus. We observed a positive identification in all samples, revealing this methodology as a potential molecular tool for direct application in the authentication of S. scombrus canned products.