DNA metabarcoding unveils the hidden species composition in fish surimi: Implications for the management of unlabeled and mixed seafood products

Fish surimi products are traditional foods primarily made from fish meat and may contain a complex species composition. In Taiwan, the abundant fishery resources and diverse fish species lead to local catches being widely used as ingredients in fish surimi products. However, due to growing market demand and increasingly scarce resources, some surimi products contain sensitive species, such as sharks, posing potential threats to the ecological environment and biodiversity. In this study, by applying metabarcoding techniques, we analyzed 120 fish surimi product samples from different brands and types throughout the four seasons in Taiwan's market. The main fish species identified included milkfish (<i>Chanos chanos</i>), dolphinfish (<i>Coryphaena hippurus</i>), Pomfret (<i>Taractes rubescens</i>), swordfish (<i>Istiophorus</i> spp.) and cartilaginous. Moreover, at least 37 species of cartilaginous fish, including 26 endangered species, were found. Through comprehensive and accurate species identification of surimi product ingredients, we unveiled the usage of sensitive species in products on the market. This finding is important for the surimi industry's quality control and market supervision. Furthermore, it can promote the sustainable use of Taiwan's fishery resources and protect biodiversity.