In the ever-evolving landscape of food safety, the fusion of DNA analysis and blockchain technology has ushered in a new era of precision and transparency. As we dig into the complexities of DNA, the code of life, and explore the transformative power of sequencing together with the blockchain, we witness a revolution that not only protects our food supply but also opens the door to a future where every ingredient’s origin and safety are meticulously traced.

At the core of this revolution is DNA, a complex antiparallel double helix comprising four bases: A, C, G, T. These bases encode the blueprint of every organism, orchestrating the synthesis of 20 standard amino acids – the building blocks of all lifeforms. The advent of DNA sequencing in bioinformatics has been a game-changer, allowing us to decipher and contextualize the genetic sequence within an organism’s entire genome. In the early days, DNA sequencing was a cumbersome and lengthy process, reliant on large and expensive machines. Today, with the last technological advancements like the pocket-sized MinION devices from Oxford Nanopore Technologies^[1], sequencing has become virtually accessible and affordable to everyone.

GenomeTrakr: Transforming Food Safety

Launched by the FDA, the GenomeTrakr network^[2] has been a pivotal force in reshaping food safety. In today’s globalized food market, where ingredients crisscross borders, the potential for contaminants to originate from anywhere is a significant concern. With approximately 3,000 deaths occurring annually in the US due to foodborne illnesses, precise identification of contaminants and their origins becomes paramount. To achieve this, GenomeTrakrsamples products, raw materials, and the environment for pathogens. When found, the entire genome is sequenced and isolated in a pure culture. This system acts as a radar, forming a network with a global database of known pathogens. Through this network, the entry points of pathogens into the food supply chain are identified, facilitating quick and effective responses further down the line, hopefully shielding customers of all eventual contaminations.

The rapid evolution of pathogens, such as Salmonella, responsible for foodborne outbreaks, necessitates a swift response. GenomeTrakr not only traces the source of bacteria to the contaminated product but also identifies the faulty processes in production. The ability to sequence bacteria from past outbreaks allows us to understand how the bacteria mutated and spread over time and where are the critical breaching points to look for in the supply chian. The FDA is legally empowered to shut down facilities posing a risk, preventing contaminated products from reaching consumers and reducing the risk of diseases.

The process, from food sampling to sequencing the entire genome, has become incredibly quick. The sequenced DNA is transferred to high-performance computers for analysis, and the compacted information is sent to experts who examine the evolutionary relationships among the sequenced strains, all of this within hours. This not only enhances safety measures but also aids in studying how bacteria’s evolution influences their resistances, offering valuable insights for future studies.

Taking it a step further, metagenome sequencing of all organisms within a food product can now be obtained. This holistic approach allows us to associate functional ingredients with their identity, provenance, and the repertoire of any beneficial or harmful bacterial genomes.

Blockchain and Beyond: Enhancing Traceability

Currently, big food retailers in the USA are looking towards the future with a hopeful eye. Walmart, a retail giant, has embraced blockchain technology to enhance traceability in its supply chain. Utilizing the IBM Food Trust platform, Walmart tracks the journey of food products, providing comprehensive insights into their origin and trajectory. Blockchain not only ensures traceability but also enhances transparency, enabling quicker problem identification throughout the supply chain. 

Pondering towards the future I cannot help but consider the endless possibilities that these technologies hold. Combining sequencing technology with blockchain applications could allow a powerful synergy to analyse and track down any unwanted pathogen, creating a robust system for ensuring the safety of our food supply. Of course, envisioning a world where sequencing extends beyond food safety raises ethical considerations. The simple notion of sequencing an individual’s DNA, only from a piece of its hair can hold tremendous power and responsibilities. The information contained in an individual’s DNA must not be turned into a prophetic tool to predict or alter their future. With all those great technologies in hand we must stay grounded and raise all questions about their potential societal impact and their implications for our privacy.  While technology offers remarkable capabilities, responsible and ethical use is imperative to navigate through the frontiers of genetics.

The union of DNA sequencing and blockchain technology is shaping the future of food safety. From precise identification of contaminants to comprehensive traceability, my hope is for these innovations to provide increasingly safer and more transparent food supply chains. As we march into the future, it is crucial to embrace these innovations responsibly, recognize their potential and navigate cautiously amongst the ethical considerations they bring to light. 

Eve Magnin

^[1] https://nanoporetech.com/products/sequence/minion

^[2] https://www.fda.gov/food/whole-genome-sequencing-wgs-program/genometrakr-network

Image source: https://www.foodqualityandsafety.com/article/opinion-whole-genome-sequencing-is-a-double-edged-sword-for-the-food-industry/