GMO Proficiency Test
The aim of the GMO proficiency test (PT) is to assess the ability of individual laboratories to detect the presence or absence of GM seeds and to quantify and identify their presence in samples of conventional seeds. Participants may choose their own methods. Since GMO testing has been included in the ISTA Accreditation Programme, participation in the ISTA PTs on GMO testing is compulsory for those laboratories currently in the process of accreditation in GM seed testing.
GMO Proficiency Test Data Rating
Rating systems for qualitative (presence/absence) and quantitative results are developed and tested by the ISTA Statistics Committee. Detailed information was published in Seed Testing International Nos. 128 (qualitative rating) and 130 (quantitative rating).
The rating procedure for quantitative results is described in the document: ISTA GMO Proficiency Tests: Rating System for Quantitative Results (STI No. 130 Oct 2005). From PT18 round onwards, a change in the procedure has been made in order to better take into account recognized standards regarding the precision of a quantitative result.
To obtain further information or clarification, please contact the ISTA Secretariat.
Current Proficiency Test Round
25th ISTA GMO Proficiency Test on Canola (oilseed rape, rapeseed (Brassica napus))
The aim of this proficiency test is to evaluate the ability of individual laboratories in assessing the presence and estimating the level of GM seeds in samples of conventional canola (oilseed rape, rapeseed) (Brassica napus) seed.
Since GMO testing has been included in the ISTA Accreditation Programme, the participation in the ISTA Proficiency Tests on GMO is compulsory for those laboratories in the process of accreditation or already accredited for GM seed testing in canola.
The participation fee for non-ISTA member laboratories is 2000 CHF. The fee covers costs for seed material, GMO purity checks and phytosanitary tests, sample preparation, packaging and shipping. There is no participation fee for ISTA Member Laboratories. They must identify themselves on the registration form by referring to their ISTA member code.
This proficiency test round will include an exercise to report GM results on ISTA Certificates. All ISTA Laboratories accredited for GMO Testing are strongly recommended to participate in this exercise.
Laboratories interested in participating should please send a completed registration form to the ISTA Secretariat (nadine.ettel@ista.ch) before 1 October 2026.
Time schedule
| 1. Registration Deadline of laboratories interested in participation | 1 October 2026 |
| 2. MTA for signing and directions of payment sent to participant | upon receipt of registration |
| 3. Submission of the signed MTA and payment of participation fee | 15 October 2026 |
| 4. Deadline for sending the import permit, if required | 15 October 2026 (Import Permit must be valid at least until end of August 2027) |
| 5. Sample shipment | June 2027 |
| 6. Submission of test results to the ISTA Secretariat before | 30 September 2027 |
| 7. Reporting of preliminary performance results by the Secretariat | 31 October 2027 |