Food, Grain & Genetic Testing
ICIA offers a range of testing and services for seed producers, grain industry, food ingredient companies and other grain end users, including trait confirmation, low level or adventitious presence (AP), the Non-GMO Project, mycotoxin, Identity Preserved (IP) Program and more.
FOR MORE INFORMATION VIEW FACT SHEETS BELOW
Low Level Presence (AP)
Also called Adventitious Presence (AP) testing, it is used to determine the presence of genetically modified (GM) traits in conventional seed lots. It can be identified using either a protein-based immunological (Lateral Flow Strip) or a DNA-based (PCR) approach.
Non-GMO Project
The Non-GMO Project (NGP) is a nonprofit organization that offers North America’s most trusted certification for GMO avoidance. As one of the NGP approved testing labs, ICIA follows NGP specific standards and requirements to test for level of GMO presence in seeds, grain, and other plant materials and plant derived products using PCR-based methods. We provide independent testing results to our member customers so they can make informed decisions.
Lateral Flow Strip Testing
Lateral Flow Strip (LFS) test is a protein-based immunological test designed to quickly determine the presence or absence of genetically modified traits expressed in GM seeds. They are relatively inexpensive and simple to use. They are very practical “spot” check tests, however with a limited sensitivity compared to the highly sensitive PCR test.
PCR Testing
Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test is a DNA-based test used to determine the presence of genetically modified (GM) traits in crop seeds (corn, soybeans, etc). This technique is the benchmark assay due to its high sensitivity and ability to detect very low levels of the unintended GM trait in a conventional seed lot.
Trait Confirmation
GM, also called “traited” seeds, carry characteristics that help protect the resulting plant from diseases, insects, herbicides etc. Most of the GM products are subjected to testing requirements set by the trait providers. Confirmation of the level of trait present in a seed lot is determined via ELISA and/or Bioassay tests, depending on the trait to be confirmed.
ELISA Testing
Enzyme Linked Immuno Sorbent Assay (ELISA) is a protein-based immunological test designed to determine the presence of a given trait or traits expressed in every seed of a sample seed lot. Results may be reported as qualitative or quantitative. It is often used to confirm the genetic purity of a given seed lot.
Bioassay
A bioassay test is a simple, inexpensive and accurate way to screen for trait confirmation. This test determines tolerant and nontolerant seedlings in a seed lot for a specific herbicide trait.
Dent Sterility Genotyping
DNA marker-assisted selection method is used to identify popcorn plants, which are unable to be pollinated by dent corn pollen. This method is helpful to eliminate unwanted plants (dent fertile) from the crossing nursery. Results are provided based on individual plants’ DNA.
Additional Services
Our additional services encompass a wide range of specialized solutions that complement our core offerings. These services are designed to provide enhanced value and address specific needs. By leveraging our additional services, you can elevate your experience and achieve even greater success in your business.
Customized Genetic Testing
Contact us for information about additional genetic testing capabilities
Small Grain Identification (PAGE)
Often times the identity of small grains such as oats and wheat is important for the purpose of determining if two varieties/sources are the same or different. ICIA offers a polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) test for this purpose. This total protein assay has the ability to determine “likeness” of small grain varieties.
Mycotoxin
Mycotoxins are naturally occurring toxins produced by certain molds infecting grain for food and feed end uses. Their presence in a grain lot can be detected using either an analytical or a protein-based immunological approach (ELISA and/or Lateral Flow Strip), depending on the complexity of toxins to be detected.
Identity Preserved (IP)
IP refers to the maintenance of a product’s specific traits or characteristics through growing, production and marketing channels. ICIA can help design flexible, customized programs and serve as independent auditors