STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX® includes an optional genetically modified organism (GMO) check for cotton and cotton products. The result of the test is a yes/no declaration that confirms whether the material sample contains genetically modified cotton.
The GMO test in STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX® is mandatory if you want “organic cotton” to be stated in the certificate text on the STANDARD 100 certificate. Organic Cotton must be certified separately from other cotton. The GMO test is optional for all other certifications in accordance with STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX®. The test is performed in two steps:
1. The sample is shredded and the cotton fibers are mechanically and enzymatically degraded. The genetic material (DNA) is isolated from the fiber and purified in a multi-stage process.
2. If the DNA contains specific marker genes, it is classified as a genetic modification. These genes can be identified on a molecular-biological level. Control reactions are used to prove that the cotton DNA is unmodified and exclude false-negative results.
You get a clear yes/no statement indicating whether your cotton product contains genetically modified cotton
You have the advantage that the test can be performed at any stage from the raw cotton to the finished product.
You benefit from the fact that the molecular-biological verification systems have been optimized especially for cotton products.
Reliable GMO testing results help you to minimize the various risks along your supply chain, including:
Mixing of conventional and organic seeds
Contamination from neighbouring cultivation areas
Contamination from internal processing methods
Incomplete traceability of the organic cotton