GMO Analysis and Detection

Introduction

Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) have become a controversial topic in recent years, sparking debates about their potential impact on human health and the environment. To address these concerns, GMO testing plays a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and sustainability of our food supply. In this blog, we will delve into the world of GMO testing, its significance, methods, and how it contributes to making informed decisions about GMOs.

Understanding GMOs

GMOs are organisms whose genetic material has been altered through genetic engineering techniques, with the aim of introducing specific desirable traits. These organisms encompass a wide range of products, from crops with improved pest resistance to livestock with enhanced growth potential. While the potential benefits are vast, apprehensions about their long-term impact on human health and ecological balance have necessitated stringent testing procedures.

Risks associated with consuming GMOs

The risks associated with consuming GMOs have been a topic of debate for many years. While some studies have shown that GMOs may cause serious adverse effects such as mortality, tumour or cancer, significant low fertility, decreased learning and reaction, others have found no significant differences in patterns of cancer, obesity, diabetes, kidney disease, gastrointestinal problems, celiac disease, autism, or food allergies between people who consume GMOs and those who do not.

Some of the potential health risks associated with GMOs include the following:

Allergic reactions: There is a small risk that GMO foods can trigger an allergic reaction, but this will only happen if the genetic change triggers the production of an allergen.

Toxicity: Animal toxicity studies with certain GM foods have shown that they may toxically affect several organs and systems.

Genetic changes: Some people have raised fears that eating GMO food could lead to genetic changes in humans.

Importance of testing

Market overview

The global GMO testing market witnessed a remarkable expansion, exhibiting a robust Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 10.9% during the period from 2022 to 2023. In this short span, the market value surged from $2.09 billion to an impressive $2.32 billion. This significant growth can be attributed to several key factors that have influenced the demand for GMO testing services across various industries. 

GMO found in food products (case study)

The Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) in Delhi recently found evidence of GM ingredients in Similac Alimentum and another Abbott infant formula, Similac Isomil, which is intended for lactose intolerant children. This causes damage to the intestinal mucosa lining, resulting in inability to digest and causes chronic diarrhoea.

Regulations and standards

The Food Safety and Standards (Genetically Modified Foods) Regulations, 2022 has issued draught regulations for genetically modified foods, proposing that manufacturers, sellers, and importers obtain prior approval from the regulator before manufacturing, selling, or importing food or ingredients derived from genetically modified organisms.

The following are the general requirements of the new FSSAI legislation:

• According to the draught regulations, "no person shall manufacture, pack, store, sell, market, distribute, or import any food or food ingredient produced from GMOs, except with the prior approval of the food authority."
• All food products, including GMOs created for human consumption and food ingredients made from GMOs with altered DNA, must bear the statement "contains genetically modified organisms." This is contingent on whether the product contains 1% or more of the GM ingredient considered individually. 
• Pre-packaged goods must have this label on the front of the package. According to the FSSAI, this labelling requirement also applies to the accidental or technically unavoidable presence of GM ingredients.
  
  

Testing methods

Eurofins role in testing Genetically Modified Organisms

Eurofins is a prominent player in the field of GMO testing, offering comprehensive services to assess the presence and quantity of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in various products. As one of the leading global testing and laboratory services providers, Eurofins plays a crucial role in ensuring food safety, regulatory compliance, and consumer transparency related to GMOs. Here are some key aspects of Eurofins' role in testing genetically modified organisms:

Expertise in GMO Testing: Eurofins has established expertise in GMO testing, utilizing advanced technologies and methodologies to detect and quantify genetically modified material accurately. Their team of highly skilled scientists and technicians ensures reliable and precise results.

Comprehensive GMO Analysis: Eurofins provides a wide range of GMO testing services, covering different food and feed matrices, including crops, animal products, processed foods, and food additives. They use various techniques such as PCR, ELISA, Next-Generation Sequencing, and Real-time PCR to meet the diverse needs of clients and regulatory requirements.

Regulatory Compliance: With a deep understanding of international regulations surrounding GMOs, Eurofins helps food manufacturers and producers comply with labeling requirements and safety standards. Their testing services assist in ensuring that products meet the necessary regulations before they are introduced to the market.

Supply Chain Monitoring: Eurofins facilitates supply chain monitoring, enabling companies to track GMOs at different stages of production and distribution. This helps ensure the integrity of non-GMO products and aids in preventing cross-contamination.

GMO-Free Certifications: Eurofins offers GMO-free certifications, allowing companies to showcase their commitment to providing non-GMO products to consumers. These certifications provide transparency and instill confidence in the quality and safety of products.

Contribution to Research: Beyond routine testing, Eurofins actively engages in research and development to enhance GMO testing methods and technologies continually. Their involvement in scientific advancements helps shape the industry's best practices and fosters innovation in GMO analysis.

Global Reach: With a vast network of laboratories across the globe, Eurofins provides GMO testing services to clients worldwide. This extensive reach ensures that businesses operating in different regions can access reliable GMO testing solutions.

Eurofins Analytical Services India, located in Bangalore, has achieved a significant milestone by receiving recognition from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) under the Laboratory Accreditation for Analyses of Foods (LAAF) program. This makes Eurofins the first laboratory in Asia to receive such recognition.

References

1. https://www.nature.com/scitable/topicpage/genetically-modified-organisms-gmos-transgenic-crops-and-732/
2. https://www.researchandmarkets.com/reports/5548347/gmo-testing-global-market-report-2022-by-trait
3. https://www.downtoearth.org.in/coverage/food/cse-study-finds-genetically-modified-ingredients-in-food-products-6124
4. https://fssai.gov.in/upload/uploadfiles/files/Draft_Notification_GM_Food_17_11_2021.pdf

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