DNA testing

DNA survives in many foods even after processing, and a specific sequence can show which species an ingredient comes from or whether a raw material contains genetically modified material. DNA tests answer questions that conventional chemical analysis cannot: what meat a product really contains, whether a declared species is present, or whether an undeclared one has been added.

What we test

We use methods based on the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). For meat and meat products we can confirm the species of origin and look for species not shown on the label, for example pork or poultry in a product sold as beef. These tests are useful for supplier approval, when investigating a complaint, and before exporting to markets with strict composition requirements.

The same area of work covers screening for genetically modified organisms, which targets the 35S, NOS and FMV elements and is RENAR-accredited. See the GMO testing page for details.

A species identification result is generally qualitative: it confirms whether DNA of the target species is present or absent. If you need a quantitative estimate, or species other than the usual ones, we discuss the request before the samples arrive.

Regulatory framework

• Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011 on the provision of food information to consumers (the name and the list of ingredients must match the actual composition);
• Regulation (EC) No 178/2002 laying down the general principles of food law;
• Regulations (EC) No 1829/2003 and No 1830/2003, for products that may contain GMOs.

How we work

Samples are handled so as to avoid cross-contamination, which can strongly affect a DNA test. You receive a test report with the result for each species or element tested; accredited tests are marked as such on the report.