Reference Laboratory for Genetically Modified Organisms in Food

Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) require authorisation in Switzerland. The METAS National Reference Laboratory for Genetically Modified Organisms in Food ensures the use of uniform, validated analytical methods for the detection of GMOs.

Soya beans in a beaker. — © METAS

Why are genetically modified organisms in food examined?

Food that is genetically modified, contains GMOs or has been produced from them requires authorisation in Switzerland. The authorisation procedure for GMOs ensures that there is no risk to health or the environment based on the current state of scientific knowledge.

The Ordinance on Genetically Modified Foodstuffs (GMFO) specifies the conditions under which traces of unauthorised GMOs are tolerated if they meet certain tolerance criteria:

• FDHA Ordinance of 27 May 2020 on Genetically Modified Foods (GMFO, SR 817.022.51)

Detection methods and analysis methods

The National Reference Laboratory at METAS has a wide range of analytical methods for detecting GMOs which is being continuously 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.

Quality

Accreditation

As a National Reference Laboratory, we are accredited in accordance with the European standard EN ISO/IEC 17025 “General requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories” (accreditation number: STS 0119).

• Accredited scope of the METAS test laboratory STS 0119

Validation of methods and suitability tests

In order to ensure that the quality of our analyses remains at the highest level, we are taking part in the validation of methods studies and in the suitability tests organised by the European Union Reference Laboratory.

If required, we also organise or arrange aptitude tests for the cantonal laboratories.

National and international cooperation

As the National Reference Laboratory, we represent Switzerland at meetings and in working groups organised by the European network. The aim of this collaboration is to:

• promote the exchange of knowledge
• forward the recommendations of the European Union Reference Laboratories to the national bodies

In order to pass on important findings and developments from the international meetings to Swiss circles of experts and to promote dialogue with the cantonal enforcement laboratories, we organise a national symposium every year.

NRL Symposium on GMO Analysis

The next symposium of the National Reference Laboratory for Genetically Modified Organisms in Food will take place in Wabern on 29 October 2026.

For further information on the symposium, please contact: [e-mail]

More information

• European Union Reference Laboratory for Genetically Modified Food and Feed (EURL GMFF)

• Legal basis

  • FDHA Ordinance of 27 May 2020 on Genetically Modified Foods (GMFO, SR 817.022.51)