Development of a certified reference material for genetically modified potato with altered starch composition

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Food Science
• Genetics

Background:

• Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) require rigorous regulatory oversight in the EU and globally.
• Certified reference materials (CRMs) are essential for the quality control of GMO quantification in food and feed.
• Existing CRMs primarily cover genetically modified crops like corn, soybean, and cotton.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the development of the first CRM for a GMO potato (EH92-527-1).
• This potato GMO is unique as it differs in a major compositional constituent: starch.
• To address the challenges in certifying a GMO with significant compositional changes.

Main Methods:

• Development of novel and modified procedures for processing and characterization.
• Adaptation of standard CRM production methods for a compositionally distinct GMO.
• Certification strategy formulation considering altered starch content.

Main Results:

• Successful development of the first CRM for a GMO potato with modified starch.
• Demonstration that compositional differences necessitate specialized certification approaches.
• Established new and modified procedures for processing and characterizing this unique GMO material.

Conclusions:

• The development of CRMs for GMOs with major compositional changes, like altered starch content in potatoes, presents unique challenges.
• New and adapted methodologies are required for the accurate certification of such materials.
• This CRM supports enhanced quality control for GMO detection in food and feed, particularly for novel crop modifications.