Identification of genetically modified organisms in foods of plant origin as a way to control health risks for consumers

Abstract

Uncontrolled distribution of goods produced by genetically modified plants should be prevented by the state in order to secure food safety in the Russian Federation and to minimize health risks for consumers. We analyzed foods of plant origin for children to identify components of genetically modified organisms in them. It was done to ensure safety of such foods. The highest specific weight among the analyzed foods belonged to nectars (40.0 %) and juice-containing drinks (36.0 %). Juices and fruit drinks accounted for 12 % each. Genetically modified organisms were determined in foods by identifying regulatory sequences (35S promoter, FMV promoter and NOS terminator) that are widely used in constructions of genetically modified plants. Occurrence of regulatory genetic elements specific for genetically modified organisms was checked in juice products for children by the polymerase chain reaction in real-time mode with hybridization-fluorescent detection of amplification products and with the use of the “AmpliSens GM Plant-1-FL” and “AmpliKvant GM soya-FL” test systems. The results of this study showed that no analyzed foods of plant origin contained any regulatory sequences (35S, NOS и FMV) indicating presence of genetically modified organisms. Fluorescence through the FAM, Cy5 and ROX channels did not exceed its threshold value. Therefore, we did not detect any violations of the established requirements to occurrence of genetically modified organisms in foods for children. Further investigation that would involve examining a more extensive material is required to ensure proper assessment and control of food contamination with genetically modified organisms in order to ensure food safety.