Genetically Modified Cotton (GMO) Testing

Demand for organic cotton keeps growing.

Organic cotton prohibits genetically modified seeds, chemical pesticides and fertilizers. Still, genetic modifications are often found in products sold with organic labels.

Genetically Modified (GMO) Cotton

Screening - Identification - Quantification

Hohenstein is one of the few testing labs accredited to ISO 17025 for the ISO/IWA 32:2019 protocol. For example, this means we provide evidence of non-GMO cotton to meet certification requirements of the international Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS).

We were also one of the first labs able to identify and quantify GMOs. We identify known genetic modifications in the (raw cotton) sample and quantify their respective proportions.

Why GMO testing?

Quality control/comparison
Product identification
Fraud management
Supply chain transparency
Organic cotton certification
Marketing claim verification

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GMO Screening
GMO Quantification

GMO Screening

GMO Screening According to ISO/IWA 32:2019 Protocol

Our GMO screening provides a clear yes/no statement about the presence of genetically modified cotton in the tested sample. For ISO/IWA 32:2019 and GOTS, testing must be performed on raw cotton or chemically untreated yarns and textile surfaces.

How We Test

The sample is shredded and the cotton fibers are mechanically and enzymatically extracted. The genetic material (DNA) is separated from the fibers and purified through a multi-stage process.
If the DNA contains a specific target sequence (gene marker), genetic modification is indicated and molecular biological evidence is obtained. Control reactions are used to detect unmodified cotton DNA and exclude false-negative results.

The DNA is generally protected in the nucleus of the cotton fiber. In rare cases, DNA analysis does not work. For example, the cotton can be so stressed during processing that the DNA in the cell nucleus has been damaged or destroyed. In this case, we recommend taking samples from previous process stages or testing the raw material directly.

GMO Quantification

GMO Quantification for Limits and Transparency

Identification and quantification of GMOs distinguishes between their presence due to minor contamination versus an admixture in larger proportions, helping manufacturers, brands and retailers with supply chain and fraud management.

How We Quantify

Upon request following a positive GMO screening, further DNA analysis can specifically search for different cotton lines with known genetic modifications. We quantify the respective proportion within the sample.

Hohenstein Method + ISO/IWA 32:2019

We can determine the presence of GMOs and the percentage of contamination - at any stage of cotton with undamaged DNA.

Seed, Plant, Raw Cotton, Yarn, Surface, Shirt/End Product — Hohenstein analyzes GMOs on cotton at the seed, plant, raw, yarn, fabric and finished good stages.

Organic Cotton + OEKO-TEX®

GMO testing is required during certification of organic cotton.

Organic cotton must test negative for GMOs during OEKO-TEX® ORGANIC COTTON certification.

Beyond Organic

Each step between the field and the consumer can add toxic substances or increase the product's footprint.

For materials and products with at least 70% organic origins, OEKO-TEX® ORGANIC COTTON tests and certifies safety from harmful substances and verifies the whole organic supply chain.

OEKO-TEX® MADE IN GREEN is a traceable label that protects workers and the planet - in addition to the consumer. It verifies the responsible production throughout the supply chain.

$Sew-in label with OEKO-TEX® MADE IN GREEN logo, certification number, institute$