The capability of immunoassays to quantitatively detect proteins, be implem
ented commercially on a wide scale and generate validated data for regulato
ry compliance in a cost-effective manner is evidenced by the existing immun
oassay industry. The use of immunoassays in the food industry is well estab
lished. To enable immunoassay testing of foods for the presence of genetica
lly modified organisms (GMO), proprietary proteins must be available for te
st development. Standard reference materials are required for method develo
pment, to translate test results in terms of % GMO, and to ensure uniform t
est performance throughout the EU. Data are presented demonstrating quantit
ative detection of Roundup Ready(R) Soy Bean Certified Reference Material u
sing a commercial ELISA. Strategies for successful implementation of testin
g are discussed. (C) 1999 Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights res
erved.