Detection of genetically modified organisms in food products commercialized in Mozambique

Abstract

The increasing presence of food and feed products derived from genetically modified organisms (GMO) has led to the development of detection methods that distinguish between foods derived from biotechnology and conventional foods. Many countries have implemented the Regulations for GM products labelling, therefore the need of establish reliable and accurate detection methods for GMO in raw materials and food products. The aim of the present study was to screen foods sold in the selected Mozambican markets for the presence of GMOs. Out of 47 samples analysed, 22 (46%) were positive either for 35S promoter or t-NOS terminator. Results of the event-specific analysis indicated the presence of RRS, Mon863 and TC1507 in 8, 6 and 1 sample respectively. None of the positive samples had a GM label. This study demonstrates for the first time, as far as we know, the presence of GM food products circulating in Mozambican markets, therefore strengthening the need for establish of labelling system and quantitative methods in routine analyses, to ensure compliance with existing regulations.