Profile
The National Reference Laboratories at METAS have a wide range of analytical methods for detecting genetically modified organisms (GMOs) which is constantly being expanded. This means that all GMOs currently authorised in the European Union can be detected using specific procedures. They are based on standard methods that have been validated by the European Reference Laboratory as part of the approval process, i.e. they have been tested in terms of their suitability. The methods are published on the website of the European Reference Laboratory.
In addition, general search procedures (screening methods) are used, with which genetic elements that occur in many GMOs can be recorded simultaneously. They are particularly useful for detecting unknown, unauthorised GMOs.
European Union Reference Laboratory for Genetically Modified Food and Feed
Validation studies
Suitability tests
Validation of methods and suitability tests
In order to continue to offer our analytics at the highest level, we are taking part in the suitability tests organised by the EU reference laboratory. If required, we will organise and mediate suitability tests for the cantonal laboratories.
Quality assurance
The National Reference Laboratories are accredited according to the European standard EN ISO/IEC 17025 “General requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories” (accreditation number: STS 0554 and STS 0119).
Last modification 28.03.2023
Contact
Swiss Federal Institute of Metrology
Laboratory for Biological Analysis and References
Campus Liebefeld
Schwarzenburgstrasse 165
3003 Bern-Wabern
Switzerland
+41 58 387 01 11
NRL-GVO@metas.ch