Food smuggling and trafficking: the key factors of influence

Publication date: Available online 12 September 2018Source: Trends in Food Science & TechnologyAuthor(s): Jan Mei Soona, Louise ManningAbstractBackgroundFood smuggling and food trafficking are terms not currently defined in the food literature. This work sought to determine how such definitions could be developed in order to inform future research and surveillance activity.Scope and ApproachThe concept of food smuggling and food trafficking is considered, and regulatory food surveillance data for illegal and unauthorised imports and food trade incidents (n=347) into the European Union (EU) between 1987 and 2017 is explored and critiqued.Key findingsIllegal imports, especially animal and fish products, can pose a threat to human and animal health, spread animal disease and invasive plant species, and lead to loss of wildlife and biodiversity. Economies are weakened through the tax avoidance and evasion elements of food smuggling and coercive food trafficking. Reported illegal trade in the EU’s Risk Assessment for Food and Feed (RASFF) database was highest for meat products followed by fruit and vegetables. Purposive sampling means the data does not reflect the true incidence, extent and type of illegal imports especially by individuals for personal use. There are limited global strategies in place to address food smuggling and trafficking. This work has translated the lessons learnt from the processes developed to reduce tobacco smuggling to illicit activity associated with ...
Source: Trends in Food Science and Technology - Category: Food Science Source Type: research