2. The future perspectives

The presently available methods for detection of GMOs and their derivatives can not distinguish between two different ingredients in a foodstuff. The methods can only be used to detect and quantify the content of GMO at species level.

Currently the companies seeking approval of their GMO in Europe are allowed to keep secret the sequence information describing their GMO. In this way scientists lack basic information to design detection methods.

Better methods for isolation of the molecules of interest to be detected and their quantitative and qualitative analysis are needed and recently under development. The majority of the developments are focused on DNA methods that may allow increased specificity through;

• PCR methods targeting the junction between the insert and the integration part;
  • GMO specific fingerprinting methods similar to those used for criminals;
  • Diagnostic micro-arrays similar to those determining the inheritable disease predisposal.

Finally, proficiency tests have to be organized for industry control authorities and other purchasing GMO analyses by accredited laboratories using international standards.