Detection and Quantification of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) in Halal Food Products by qPCR Method― Utilization of GMO-Positive Cabbage Seeds: GMOs in Halal Food Products by qPCR Method: GMO-Positive Cabbage Seeds

Syeda Areeba Nadeem; Noor Fatima; Duaa Mughal; Shakil Ahmed; Ishtiaq Ahmed Khan; Aymen Arif

doi:10.54393/fbt.v5i2.198

Authors

Syeda Areeba Nadeem International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi, Pakistan
Noor Fatima International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi, Pakistan
Duaa Mughal International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi, Pakistan
Shakil Ahmed International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi, Pakistan
Ishtiaq Ahmed Khan International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi, Pakistan
Aymen Arif Molecular Diagnostic and Research Laboratory, Isra University, Karachi, Pakistan

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54393/fbt.v5i2.198

Keywords:

Genetically Modified Organism, Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction, NOS Terminator, Halal Authentication, Food Adulteration

Abstract

Use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in international food production has resulted in religious and health issues, especially among Muslim consumers. There is a need to have good analyses that will guarantee the authenticity and safety of the halal food products. Objectives: To identify and determine the concentration of GM contamination in both raw and processed foodstuff samples using a sensitive quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) method. Methods: Certified Reference Material (CRM-BF410ep Soya Bean) was used to construct a qPCR standard curve by 10-fold serial dilution (0.1% 0.01% 0.001% 0.0001%). GMO-positive cabbage seeds were added to processed food (China noodles, mixed spices, rice protein) and unprocessed food (brown rice, basmati rice, IRRI-6 rice). The NOS terminator sequence has been measured using qPCR to amplify DNA by extracting it with a commercial kit, quantifying it, and subsequently analyzing the DNA sample. Efficiency and limits of detection. Results: NOS terminator sequence was easily identified in a concentration of 0.001% and the mean Ct values were similar to the CRM standard. The statistical analysis (p.05) showed that there is no significant differentiation between the CRM and spiked samples, which proves the accuracy and reproducibility of the method at low concentrations of DNA. Conclusions: The tested qPCR technique proved to be very sensitive in the detection of GM contamination in various food matrices at 0.001 percent. Conclusions: This method will aid in halal food authentication, and a reliable molecular tool will help in avoiding accidental intake of GM haram ingredients.

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