Fakes on a plate
Europol’s latest food fraud crackdown should concern the food and drink trade. Operation OPSON XIV, coordinated with OLAF, DG SANTE, and authorities across 31 countries, resulted in the seizure of €95 million worth of counterfeit and substandard food and drink. More than 11,500 tonnes of food and 1.4 million litres of beverages were removed from circulation, and over 600 individuals were referred to judicial authorities. These figures point to a deeply embedded criminal network — not isolated incidents.
The operation revealed increasingly sophisticated tactics. One of the most alarming trends was the relabelling of expired products. Criminals infiltrated disposal chains, retrieved food destined for destruction, stripped original expiry labels, and reapplied falsified dates. These products, often degraded or hazardous, were reintroduced into the market. Canned fish was among the most concerning examples, given the health risks associated with spoilage.
Premium goods with protected designations — such as extra-virgin olive oil and regional wines — were also targeted. Fraudsters misrepresented origin and quality to command higher prices, undermining consumer trust and penalising legitimate producers. Inspections uncovered meat and seafood sold in unsafe conditions or processed in facilities that failed hygiene standards. Bivalves were found stored in subpar conditions despite being unfit for consumption.
The implications are serious. Spoiled or contaminated food poses risks ranging from food poisoning to chemical exposure. Fraud erodes trust in labels, brands, and certification schemes. Legitimate producers lose revenue, governments lose tax income, and public funds are diverted to enforcement and remediation.
It’s another strain on industry. However, industry must respond with sustained action. Cross-border intelligence sharing is essential to close gaps in enforcement. Disposal chains need tighter oversight to prevent expired goods from re-entering the market. Investment in forensic testing and digital traceability can help detect and prevent fraud. Stronger penalties and asset seizures are needed to deter organised food crime. Consumer education also plays a role — vigilance around suspicious pricing or packaging can reduce risk.
Food fraud is no longer a fringe issue. It’s a challenge that affects every link in the supply chain. OPSON XIV shows what’s possible when enforcement is coordinated. Now it’s time to build that vigilance into everyday operations.
Rodney Jack, editor, Food & Drink Technology.
Keep in touch via email: [email protected] Twitter: @foodanddrinktec or LinkedIn: Food & Drink Technology magazine.
