A novel FTIR discrimination based on genomic DNA for species-specific analysis of meat and bone meal

Abstract Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was applied for the species-specific identification of meat and bone meal (MBM), based on genomic DNA characteristics. A total of 51 source-reliable MBM samples, including porcine, poultry, bovine, and ovine MBM, were analysed. Genomic DNA was extracted using an optimized procedure for FTIR scanning. The results showed that a series of discriminatory FTIR spectral bands were closely related to DNA characteristics of MBM. The spectral intensity difference at 1651 cm −1 was identified as a key peak for discriminating ruminant from non-ruminant MBM. Combining FTIR data with chemometrics, a two-step protocol for discriminant analysis was established. An initial identification model of porcine, poultry, and ruminant MBM and a second model of bovine and ovine MBM were established. The results obtained using two models showed that the correct classification rate was 100%. This method could assist governments in confirming the authenticity of species to ensure feed safety.