EVALUATION OF LABELING AND AUTHENTICITY OF DAIRY PRODUCTS SOLD IN THE CITY OF PIRACICABA - SP

• Grant number: 24/15638-5
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: November 01, 2024
• End date: October 31, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Agronomical Sciences - Animal Husbandry - Genetics and Improvement of Domestic Animals
• Principal Investigator: Aline Silva Mello Cesar
• Grantee: Marina Beduschi de Negri Machado
• Host Institution: Escola Superior de Agricultura Luiz de Queiroz (ESALQ). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Piracicaba , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Dairy products are foods that are nutritionally rich in calcium, proteins and fats and are widely consumed by Brazilians. However, a portion of the population faces challenges anlimitations, since cow's milk proteins, such as casein and lactose, are responsible for triggering allergic processes such as intolerance or hypersensitivity. The protein profile of milk from other mammalian species, such as buffalo, goat and sheep, is being studied as a substitute for cow's milk. Several tools have been used to ensure the safety of these foods. Therefore, this project aims to evaluate the labeling and authenticity of buffalo, goat and sheep dairy products sold in the city of Piracicaba - SP, using the molecular technique of Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). A total of 36 samples will be analyzed, 12 of which will be buffalo dairy products (milk n=6 and cheese n=6), 12 of which will be goat dairy products (milk n=6 and cheese n=6) and 12 of which will be sheep dairy products (milk n=6 and cheese n=6). The products will be subject to labeling compliance assessment in accordance with the following legislation: RDC No. 727, of July 2022, Ordinance No. 249, of June 9, 2021 and RDC No. 429, of October 8, 2020. Authenticity will be assessed by amplification of the cytb gene (115 bp) for the detection of bovine DNA. Thus, the results of this project will contribute to recommendations for improving labeling practices and ensuring the authenticity of dairy products, aiming to promote transparency, consumer confidence and regulatory compliance.