There is an increasing use of molecular tools for seeds health testing. Both used by the industry and by regulators or NPPO’s. Molecular tests do not demonstrate presence of viable pathogens. There might be (risk of) over regulation and unnecessary blocking of seed lots.
What is the ‘biological relevance’ of a test result? A seeds health test can be considered biological relevant when a infectious pathogen is present on the seed and this presence causes a proven risk of transmission to the next generation.
Industry message
Biological relevance is essential for safeguarding global seeds trade and food production. Indirect test methods do not take biological relevance into consideration and can therefore cause rejection of healthy seed lots.
Solution
Use indirect test methods as a pre-screening tool. Following a positive result, a second test should be performed that confirms presence of a viable and infectious pathogen (confirmation test).
Balancing phytosanitary risks and access to seeds
The industry encourages policy makers to take biological relevance into consideration in their risk management strategies, including (phytosanitary) regulations and policies, to ensure access to seeds worldwide.
Infographic
To start the conversation about biological relevance with policymakers, Plantum has created an infographic. This is also available in A4 format and can be requested via info@plantum.nl
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