Intertek to launch standard for non-genetically modified organisms

Intertek is launching a non-genetically modified organism (non-GMO) standard that is currently under accreditation for use by businesses including food and drink processors.

The internationally recognised testing firm with bases on seven continents is running testing trials for the certification logo with poultry, pork and chocolate processors. However, the process could be applied to a wide range of food and drink categories.

“It’s our first standard for a non-GMO logo and we expect to receive accreditation in two to three weeks. The British Retail Consortium has a non-GMO standard, but it has not been widely used by the industry.

“We will come out with a very big programme for the poultry industry,” said Jochen Zoller, Intertek president of food services and former chief executive of third party certification body Genetic ID/Cert ID. “The problems with GMO contamination in the industry are quite high, so it’s extremely interested in this, as are high quality chocolate manufacturers.”

Zoller said the testing system would, for example, enable chocolate manufacturers to certify GMO-free lecithin, a fatty substance that occurs in animal and plant tissues.

The process of testing leading to certification could differ significantly in timescale depending on the product, said Zoller, but for most products would take three to four months.