Uncovering the GMO Controversy in Rice: Facts, Risks, and How to Detect Them
GMOs are genetically modified organisms (Genetic Modification Organisms) that have changed their DNA structure through biotechnology techniques. This process allows the insertion, deletion, or modification of specific genes to obtain desired traits, such as pest resistance, increased crop yields, or resistance to extreme environmental conditions.
In agriculture, GMOs have been widely applied to food crops, including rice, to increase agricultural productivity and efficiency. However, the use of GMOs in food is still controversial due to concerns about health impacts, environmental safety, and social and economic implications.
Therefore, testing and monitoring the presence of GMOs in food products, including rice, is very important to ensure transparency and compliance with applicable regulations.
Molecular Biology Tests for GMO Detection in Rice
As one of the staple foods for billions of people worldwide, rice is often the subject of GMO testing. Detecting GMOs in rice products is important to ensure consumer safety and that the product meets regulatory standards in various countries.
Some countries have strict regulations requiring labeling food products containing GMOs, making testing a crucial step in the food production chain. Advances in molecular technology have made it possible to detect GMOs in rice with a high degree of accuracy.
One of the most commonly used methods is polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Several types of PCR methods have been reported to facilitate detection, including Conventional PCR, Ultra-Fast PCR, Real-Time PCR, and Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR), including:
- Conventional PCR – Used for initial screening of GMOs in unlabeled rice on the market. A study tested 81 rice samples using primers that detect the 35S promoter and NOS terminator, showing that 2.4% of samples contained GMO DNA.
- Ultra-fast PCR allows the detection of five types of GMO rice (Bt63, KMD1, Kefeng6, Kefeng8, LLRice62) in a shorter time without reducing sensitivity and specificity.
- Real-time PCR can measure GMO DNA directly during amplification, increasing sensitivity and detection accuracy.
- Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR) – Has a high level of precision in detecting small amounts of GMO DNA in rice samples.
With these methods, producers and exporters can ensure that their rice products meet the destination country's regulations and avoid the risk of market rejection.
Why is GMO Detection in Rice Important?
Many countries have strict regulations regarding the presence of GMOs in food. These regulations aim to protect consumers and ensure transparency in the food industry. Therefore, rice producers and exporters must understand and comply with the laws in the destination country.
Market monitoring is also needed to detect unapproved or illegal GMO rice varieties. This is important to maintain consumer trust and prevent product distribution that does not comply with regulations.
IML Research is a laboratory testing institution that provides molecular biology services with high-quality test results (comprehensive, accurate, and reliable) because they have strong analysis and sophisticated methodology with experienced and credible experts.
Want to know more about other research and testing? Read other interesting articles from IML Research and find the best solution for your research and testing needs!
References:
Bharti, U., Gaur, P., Kaur, K., & Singh, M. (2024). Tracking genetically modified (GM) rice ingredients in samples of packed rice and food products from the marketplace in India: a pilot study for regulatory compliance. Journal of environmental health science & engineering, 22(1), 263–269. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40201-024-00892-3.
Safaei, P., Aghaee, E. M., Khaniki, G. J., Afshari, S. A. K., & Rezaie, S. (2019). A simple and accurate PCR method for detection of genetically modified rice. Journal of environmental health science & engineering, 17(2), 847–851. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40201-019-00401-x.
Salisu, I. B., Shahid, A. A., Yaqoob, A., Ali, Q., Bajwa, K. S., Rao, A. Q., & Husnain, T. (2017). Molecular Approaches for High Throughput Detection and Quantification of Genetically Modified Crops: A Review. Frontiers in plant science, 8, 1670. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpls.2017.01670.
Shin, M. K., Jeon, S. M., & Koo, Y. E. (2022). Development of a rapid detection method for genetically modified rice using the ultra-fast PCR system. Food science and biotechnology, 31(2), 175–182. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10068-021-01025-4.
