Implementation of monitoring for genetically modified rapeseed in Serbia

Zorica Nikolic*
Institute of Field and Vegetable Crops
Maksima Gorkog 30
Novi Sad, Serbia

Milka Vujakovic
Institute of Field and Vegetable Crops
Maksima Gorkog 30
Novi Sad, Serbia

Ana Marjanovic Jeromela
Institute of Field and Vegetable Crops
Maksima Gorkog 30
Novi Sad, Serbia

Dušica Jovicic
Institute of Field and Vegetable Crops
Maksima Gorkog 30
Novi Sad, Serbia

*Corresponding author

Keywords: genetically modified organism, monitoring, rapeseed.

Genetically modified (GMO) rapeseed (Brassica napus) is not grown commercially in European Union, but several lines have been approved for production and use as food and feed. A case-specific monitoring of herbicide-tolerant rapeseed, events RT73, RF3 and T45 was established by Ministry of Agriculture of Republic of Serbia. The objectives of the present study were to introduce methods for detection of herbicide-tolerant GM oilseed rape, investigate occurrence and monitor the presence of GM rapeseed in seed and the feed products, as well as to develop a protocol for quantification. The study was based on 48 samples, rapeseed (33) and feed (15) products, imported from EU countries (Germany, Belgium, France, Czeck Republic, Austria) and from domestic market. Seven positive feed samples and no positive seed samples have found. The percent of GMO in feed samples, estimated on semi- quantitative way, was below labeling threshold. Adventitious presence of GM materials in non-GM grain, derived food and feedstuffs is a concern to international grain trade and needs continuous monitoring.