The use of chemical composition and stable isotope ratio analysis to trace European sea bass (D. labrax) originating from different farming systems

High quality products with geographical indications and designations of origin following CE Reg. 509/2006 are generally high-priced and bring in a higher benefit to the producers than ordinary products. Product labelling based on efficient traceability systems, like Stable Isotope Ratio Analysis (SIRA), represents an useful tool to trace food commodities and ensure their authenticity. The aim of the present study was to determine whether SIRA could univocally be used to discriminate farmed European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) according to the farming system as the species is commonly reared in the Mediterranean area in intensive, flow-through concrete raceways or pond systems, floating sea cages and in traditional extensive ponds located in environmentally sensitive areas