December 22, 2009 (Saskatoon, SK) - Another option is now available to Saskatchewan producers who want to detect whether CDC Triffid may be in their flax crop. CDC Triffid is the genetically-modified flax variety that was developed at the University of Saskatchewan in the 1990s.
Saskatchewan Research Council (SRC)’s GenServe LaboratoriesTM is now offering GMO testing for event PF FP967 (CDC Triffid) in flax. The method used is based on the “NOST-spec construct-specific method for the detection of CDC Triffid flax (Event FP967) using real-time PCR”. The sensitivity limit of the method used is 0.01%.
“GenServe Laboratories™ has passed the round of proficiency testing organized by the Canadian Grain Commission and is ready to accept samples,” said Dr. Colette Jako, Manager of GenServe LaboratoriesTM in Saskatoon.
Growers are reminded to send in a sample for each 3,000 to 5,000 bushels of flax inventory. Samples should be 500 g in size and the guidelines for preparing representative samples are available from the Canadian Grain Commission. Producers who wish to have their flax tested can send or drop off their samples in a zipper-sealed bag to SRC GenServe LaboratoriesTM at the following address:
GenServe LaboratoriesTM
Saskatchewan Research Council
125 - 15 Innovation Boulevard
Saskatoon, SK S7N 2X8
Tel: 306-933-7700
Toll-free: 1-866-420-2293
Email: genserve@src.sk.ca
Web: www.genserve.ca
The cost of each test will be $105 + 5% GST. Samples should be accompanied with the SRC Producer Test Form that is provided here.
Producers are advised to always check with potential buyers in advance to ensure any test they employ will meet their requirements.
For more information, contact:
Linda Braun, Executive Director
Saskatchewan Flax Development Commission
Saskatoon, SK
Tel. 306-664-1901
Email: saskflax@saskflax.com
or
Dr. Colette Jako, Manager - SRC GenServe LaboratoriesTM
Saskatchewan Research Council
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
Tel. (306) 933-7700
Email: genserve@src.sk.ca
