A number of factors determine the appropriateness to whether qualitative or quantitative testing should be used. HAI KANG LIFE can provide knowledgeable advice to customers when making this decision. Further information concerning product sampling, DNA extraction and the two types of testing service are detailed in the following sections.

Phase 1: Product sampling

Samples submitted for GMO testing should be both representative of the consignment under question and of sufficient size so that significant results can be obtained at the detection limits of the test. For example, to detect GM DNA present in beans or kernels at a 0.1% level (1 in 1,000), an initial sample of 5,000-10,000 beans or kernels would be required. In the case of mixed processed products, a 200g sample will be enough for a test at a 0.1% sensitivity level.

Phase 2: DNA extraction

The most challenging aspect of GMO testing could be the extraction of high-quality DNA from the source material. Potential difficulties include: contamination with airborne DNA, trace amount of DNA present from processed foods, and failure to completely remove PCR inhibitors from the DNA sample. To overcome these difficulties, our team of highly skilled researchers has designed robust extraction methods, which work consistently across a wide range of food types, including oil, sauce, flours, lecithin, and deep-fried products.

Phase 3: PCR amplification

Once high quality DNA is obtained, we use PCR to selectively amplify pre-determined segments of the transgenic insert. As a control measure, we PCR-amplify three different segments of DNA, each of which provides an independent result. Results across all three tests must be consistent before we report our findings. In cases where results require further confirmation, we either use additional PCR tests or re-extract the sample and re-analyse the DNA. For all our tests, we use an appropriate range of controls to ensure the most accurate results possible. Price Schedule Please contact us for current rates.

Price Schedule

Please contact us for current rates.

Click here to download our GMO service leaflet