Traceability / Certificates
Since the market does not require genetically modified products, proof guaranteeing consumer food safety is increasingly gaining significance. With the help of analytical methods, the certification of non-GMO raw materials and products can be traced and guaranteed.
There are a variety of non-GMO certification and controls:
Identify Preservation (IP) System: denotes a system or a process that includes a tracking system and determines the properties of a product. The system is most often used in seed production and seed distribution. The demand for IP systems increases with the introduction of genetically modified plants. As an additional element, the harvest is tested as part of the IP system on non-GMOs.
Thus, verification of IP systems by third parties is becoming increasingly important to ensure the safety of product quality. The application of the IP system is confirmed by a system certificate. So-called Certificates of Compliances confirm the non-GMO status of the individual batch delivered.
For further safeguarding, the PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) serves as a test method for performing a direct DNA analysis. PCR analyses are recognized as a more accurate and reliable GMO testing method than ELISA (Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay). With the help of PCR testing methods, the slightest traces of GMO in various products can be detected. The prerequisite for the analysis is that target DNA can be found in the material to be analyzed, and the total amount of DNA is sufficient for a statistically reliable statement on the status.
The Identity Preservation Program Control IP standard from Eurofins consists of independent audits and verifications as well as the monitoring of suppliers. This permits continuous monitoring of the processing, storage and transport of non-GMO lecithin.
The company SGS (Société Générale de Surveillance) is in the business of making available the Non-GMO Supply Chain Standard. SGS helps to provide organizers with verifiable non-GMO products. The certification includes the verification of legal regulations concerning the labeling and traceability of GMOs.
Intertek Food Services awards the certificate "Intertek Non-GMO Conformity" to a wide range of industries around the world and documents the compliance of the "Non-GMO" standard. The certification includes reliable traceability throughout the entire supply chain from raw material to finished product.
The CERT ID Non-GMO certification was introduced in 1999 and is an internationally recognized certification program. It includes the two standards CERT ID Non-GMO Standard (more than 0.1% adventitious or technically unavoidable GMO contamination) and CERT ID EU standard (maximum 0.9% adventitious or technically unavoidable GMO contamination).
All systems comply with the requirements of the EU Regulation (EC) No 1830/2003, which regulates the traceability and labeling of GMOs in food and feed.
