A recent systematic review (here – open access) covers DNA methods published 2015-2022 to detect game and unusual meat species. It includes conventional RT-PCR, other amplification protocols and full sequencing. The review is organised both by target species and by test method. The authors make the point that there are tests published somewhere for almost every species but that when it comes down to practice most testing relies on RT-PCR for a limited panel of targeted species. In Europe, particularly, there is still a strong emphasis on testing for undeclared horsemeat. The most common “unusual” species included in targeted tests are buffalo, camel, deer, donkey, fox, mink, horse, rabbit, wild boar and yak.
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