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The article discusses the discovery of widespread adulteration of beef with horse meat in Europe by the Food Safety Authority of Ireland, which led the Food Standards Agency (FSA) of Great Britain to order testing of all beef products. It is noted that DNA testing and DNA databases can be used to authenticate and trace meat and its origin. Also explored is research into the nutritional value and environmental impact of insects as food. INSET: STIR-FRIED MEALWORMS, ANYONE?.

The author discusses the issue of food adulteration, in light of the 2013 discovery of widespread horse meat in the European food supply. It is noted that the scandal gained publicity over the cultural taboo against eating horse meat. The author calls for greater scrutiny over the ethical and environmental impacts of meat eating, as well as improved inspection and regulation of meat products.