New Biochip as a Test for Non-Approved Genetically Modified Organisms in Food

Hamburg biotech supplier Eppendorf has an effective detection system

During recent weeks consumer protectors discovered non-approved, genetically engineered LL601 rice in German and European supermarkets. This has now also been confirmed by official food control authorities. Only a few weeks ago, similar reports were released by the American health agency FDA who had also found illicit genetically modified rice of the same variety in the shelves of supermarkets in the US.

Eppendorf Biochip Systems GmbH has developed an innovative detection method for genetically modified organisms (GMOs) which both detects GMOs currently approved by the EU and reliably tests for the presence of non-approved GMOs.

The technical principle is based on the detection of specific DNA elements used only in GMO plants. The Eppendorf method combines the information obtained from the test under software guidance to come to a conclusion on genetically engineered organisms. The advantage compared to conventional tests is that it can detect numerous individual elements of one gene library simultaneously.

These specific patterns are located on a biochip, visualized, and evaluated by means of matching software.

“Frequently, time-consuming laboratory tests are the only means of differentiating food contamination. The laboratories must know which genetic modifications they are looking for in the bulk of hereditary substance. The non-approved LL601 variety can be detected with our test procedure,” says Dr. Sven Bülow, Managing Director of Eppendorf Biochip Systems. “Right now, our test is already capable of detecting about 60 percent of all GMOs known in literature”.

Eppendorf AG is a leading global supplier of biotechnology systems and research tools, employing more than 1,800 people. In 2005, the company generated sales of nearly 321 million Euros and regular business activity earnings (EBIT) amounting to 50.4 million Euros.

Source: Eppendorf AG