DNA testing for truffles

French scientists have identified the genetic code of the truffle, enabling anti-fraud investigators to distinguish between true examples of the prized fungus and an inferior Chinese variety flooding the market.

The breakthrough is a major advance in the campaign to protect Tuber Melanosporum - the classic black Perigord truffle beloved of gourmets round the world - from its physically almost indistinguishable rival Tuber Indicum, which has been imported to France from China in growing quantities since 1994. . .

"This year Chinese truffles are being imported for around 20 euro a kilo, while Perigord truffles are selling at markets in the south for 300 euro a kilo," said Michel Courvoisier, director of the French Federation of Truffle-Growers (FFT).

Posted by David on January 10, 2003 10:32 AM