Strategic Diagnostics, Inc. (NASDAQ: SDIX), a leading provider of analytical test kits for the agricultural, water quality and food testing markets, today announced the commercialization of a new application for the TraitChek RUR Test Strip for bulk canola (also known as rapeseed) with detection limits of one Roundup Ready™ (RUR) canola seed in 1000 non-RUR seeds (0.1%) in 5 minutes.  The TraitChek RUR Canola Test Kit was developed to meet the requirements of identity preservation programs for international import and export managers and quality control testing of conventional canola seed by providing an easy to use, rapid testing tool for GMO screening at low levels. 

Canola is grown for its seed, which represents a major source of edible vegetable oil and is also used in livestock feeds.  In March of this year, Europe’s leading food agency, the European Food Safety Authority concluded there were no significant compositional differences between Monsanto’s Roundup Ready canola known as GT73 and conventional canola. Furthermore, the animal feeding trials reviewed by the panel showed that GT73 canola is as safe as the conventional one.  On June 16, 2004, the European Commission’s expert committee, made up of the 25-member states, voted not to allow the import of the GT73 into the European Union for animal feed and industrial processing.  The case now goes before the European ministers who will have 3 months to approve or reject the GT73 canola.

Matthew H. Knight, President and CEO of SDI commented, “The current concern around the importation of Roundup Ready canola into the EU creates another opportunity for Strategic Diagnostic’s technology to be used to assure adherence to rules.  We have developed and validated a method that will be a useful tool for both seed developers who want to verify the purity of their non-transgenic seed and canola exporters and importers who must meet the current EU requirements for adventitious presence of GMO in seed and grain.”

SDI is a leading provider of biotechnology-based diagnostic tests for a broad range of agricultural, industrial, and water treatment applications.  Through its antibody business, Strategic BioSolutions, Strategic Diagnostics also provides antibody and immunoreagent research and development services.  SDI’s test kits are produced in a variety of formats suitable for field and laboratory use, offering advantages of accuracy, cost-effectiveness, portability, and rapid response.  TraitChek™, GMO QuickChek™, and GMOChek™ are pending trademarks for SDI.