What is Food Fraud and What Can You Do About it?

You may have recently heard or read a news story about food fraud, including the ramifications for those who were to blame for the “fraud.” This is because it’s happening all too often, with way too many big name companies.

What exactly is food fraud and what can you do if you suspect, or heavily suspect, that food fraud is happening in an establishment near you?

When a company places an edible item on the market for financial gain, with a sole intention of deceiving the consumer, this is food fraud. This “fraud” could be defined as a number of things really, but there are two common examples of food fraud that we see today.

The sale of food in which the food is potentially dangerous. This can include manufacturers who recycle animal by-products back into the foods, as well as those who sell “beef” with no idea as to what kind of animal this “beef” came from. Some establishments even change the date on expired food in order to sell it.

Then, you also have the deliberate misinformation on food labels. Of course, why wouldn’t companies sell cheaper versions of food as “premier” items. One example is many people sold farmed salmon as wild, and there is a significant difference. Also, making false statements about food, like their origin or healthiness, is a common form a food fraud.

If you’re a customer or employee in the food industry, and you suspect food fraud, the best thing you can do is contact SMG Consulting Services and we can investigate the claim.