To support a resilient UK food system and protect consumer confidence, Defra commissioned a project to examine global food fraud drivers and evaluate mitigation tools. Phase 1 identified key global drivers expected to impact the UK within 5–10 years. Phase 2, described in this report, compiled and critically assessed tools used by industry and regulators to mitigate food fraud. Using literature reviews and stakeholder interviews, the study created an inventory of tools grouped into 19 functional categories. Findings showed that no single digital system covers all aspects of food fraud mitigation; stakeholders rely on multiple tools combined with expert judgement. Networking and information sharing among experts were considered the most valuable mechanisms for prioritising risks. Most existing tools focus on external threats, while internal vulnerabilities (e.g., employee misconduct) are rarely addressed beyond general measures such as whistleblowing or training. Stakeholders commonly use incident databases, but limited data availability and lack of contextual filtering reduce their effectiveness. Emerging technologies—particularly artificial intelligence (AI), predictive analytics, and digital supply chain traceability systems (e.g., distributed ledgers, IoT)—show potential for improving risk assessment and supply chain transparency. However, integration challenges, lack of common standards, and commercially sensitive data remain barriers. The report concludes that enhanced data integration, digital traceability, and collaborative intelligence-sharing are key to strengthening future food fraud mitigation strategies.
