Methods can be developed in individual laboratories but when transportation or trade is required it is imperative that the tests and the interpretation of those tests can be transferred with confidence between laboratories. A standard method is needed for comparison. AACC is working with other representative associations to validate these methods. In conclusion, test methods are a tool to compliment other existing programs, such as channeling or identity preservation, but in need of validation and standardization to ensure consistent, reliable results. Despite the need for additional work to ensure good quality in all cereal products, from the grain to the finished breakfast cereal, there is testing and auditing of the food in the US food supply chain.
All indications are that the quality of our food is very good.
The role of the AACC Biotechnology Committee is to provide methods and a set of quality-standards for methods to test grains derived using modern biotechnology techniques. Robust, reliable standard methods and protocols to ensure consistency in the quality of testing are vital to consumer confidence, regulation and commerce. The method has been approved by the AACC Technical Committee and is First Approval Method 11-10. It will be included as a standard method in the AACC Approved Methods book. 2 AACC is an international organization of cereal science and other professionals studying the chemistry of cereal grains and their products or working in related fields.