Detection of genetically modified plants in seeds, food and feed

Abstract

Different techniques and analytical strategies are applied for detecting and quantifying the presence of genetically modified (GM) plants in food and feed products or in seeds. DNA-based detection is performed by qualitative PCR or by quantitative real-time PCR, whereas for protein-based detection immunoassays such as lateral flow devices and ELISA are applied. The testing strategy for GMO detection is constituted of a series of steps starting with a screening for frequently inserted genetic elements and gene constructs, followed by specific identification of the GM plant event and completing the analysis with the quantification of the relative amount of the GM plant event present in a given sample. This chapter outlines also the challenges currently emerging by stacked events or by the incidences of unauthorised GM plants. It provides Information on guidance documents and databases for validated detection methods used across routine control laboratories today.