Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO) Testing and Certification

Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) undergo DNA structure modifications through biotechnology. Food manufactured or containing GMO ingredients is considered Genetically Modified (GM).

Technology used in genetic modification involves inserting external genes from one species of organism to another different species in order to alter the property of such species and this alteration could not be achieved by conventional reproductive means.

The first GMO crops launched into the food market in 1994. Until the mid-1990s, it was not possible to determine whether a food or ingredient had been genetically modified because of unreliable testing methods. Now testing methodology is no longer a barrier for the detection of GMOs in foods.

Advanced methods based on the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) are widely used for GMO testing. Concerns are ever-increasing among consumers all over the world. It is the right of consumers to know what is inside the foods they consume, hence the labelling requirement for GM foods.

Technical Benefits of our GMO Testing Protocol

We offer an integrated, comprehensive GMO detection system of unsurpassed accuracy and reliability:

1. Detection of all known GMOs in the marketplace

2. Effective on raw crops and a full range of refined foods

3. Efficient and effective sampling plan is in place to obtain the most representative sample

4. Triple-checking analytic protocol assures the highest reliability

5. Three analytic methods provide technical and cost options to the client

6. Ongoing research and development program to stay abreast of every

GMO released into the marketplace, and to develop new methods to meet customer needs

Analytical Method

Our GMO testing is Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) based with vigorous controls that eliminates false positives and negatives. In order to provide an accurate result, we use multiple primer sets and duplicates to insure testing integrity. Our testing methods are validated extensively following the ISO 25 guidelines. Depending on your needs, we offer the following services:

1. Real Time Quantitative Method

• Produce exact quantitative readings

• Maximization of precision, sensitivity and reliability of GMO detection

• Excellent for tests on raw ingredients or lightly refined foods

2. Triple-Check Method

• Gives definite range of GMO level. Very accurate in low level of GMO detection

• Appropriate for all food types

3. Threshold Screening Method

• Back up for quality assurance

• As sensitive as the above analysis but less costly to perform, it is the best way for screening and in-house checks

The Certification Program operates independently to verify the food manufacturing systems to be free from GMO contamination. We provide on-site inspections / audits together with documentation reviews, in combination with rigorous detection of GMO to help the industry to obtain GMO-free claims on their products. Non-GMO Certification, also available by Intertek, is offered in order to guarantee the quality and safety of food production processes themselves, but not the actual food product.