SYBR-Green real-time PCR assay with melting curve analysis for the rapid identification of Mytilus species in food samples

Mytilus spp. mussels are one of the most commonly cultivated species in the European Union, being M. galloprovincialis, M. edulis and M. chilensis the main species marketed here. Therefore, the identification of this seafood species is critical for labelling, traceability and food safety purposes. In the present study, 174 samples have been employed for the development of an alternative fast, simple, reliable and cost-effective methodology for the identification of Mytilus spp. mussels commercialized in Europe. This real-time PCR assay with a SYBR Green post-PCR melting curve analysis targeting the polyphenolic adhesive protein gene developed was successfully applied to fresh, frozen and canned mussels, showing 100% of specificity, sensitivity and precision. Besides, results have demonstrated the applicability of the assay in different platforms without special software requirements. Therefore, the methodology described in this study is useful for the authentication of mussel samples and could be easily applied as a fast routine food control laboratory test.