DNA-based methods for identification and quantification of small grain cereal mixtures and fingerprinting of varieties

The composition of cereal-based foods is a key factor in determining the quality and safety of the final product while the reliable identification of cereal species and cultivars are essential for the handling, marketing and processing of grain and for the protection of plant breeders' rights. Analytical methods have therefore been developed and applied to identify and quantify cereal species in food products and also to fingerprint and identify grain at the genotype and variety levels. DNA-based methods for the detection and quantification of mixtures of small grain cereals are reviewed, together with the recent development of molecular markers for varietal fingerprinting.