Page 15 - February-March 2021

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Hohenstein Institute developed

a molecular biological

procedure to identify

genetically modified cotton

The Hohenstein experts have also developed their own molecular biological detection systems to test
genetically modified cotton at all critical points along the entire value chain from raw cotton to yarns, fabrics,
and finished end products. Hohenstein is a German family-owned company that has specialized for over 70
years in the testing, certification, and research of all kinds of textile products. The textile testing service provider
Hohenstein is currently one of five laboratories in Europe that carry out accredited textiles testing for genetically
modified organisms (GMO) by the ISO/IWA 32:2019 protocol.

The new biological screening allows complete traceability throughout the entire textile chain with clear yes/no
statements about GMO-free cotton or textiles. As a member institute of the OEKO-TEX® Association,
Hohenstein also screens fabrics for genetically modified organisms as part of the STANDARD 100 by
OEKO-TEX® certification. If the requirements are met, the articles can be advertised here with the claims
"organic cotton," "biological cotton," or "GMO not detectable."

Consumers are turning to organic cotton and are happy to accept higher prices for it. This is because the
cultivation of organic cotton requires the renunciation of genetically modified seeds as well as chemical
pesticides and fertilisers. Nevertheless, genetic modifications are found time and again in textiles that are
actually labelled with the relevant organic labe. Consumers can be confident that no genetically modified
cotton could be detected in the articles they buy. This is because, up to now, most organic certifications either
do not include any obligatory laboratory tests at all or only random sample tests on cotton seeds. The possible
causes of organic cotton contamination by genetic modifications are complex and extend along the entire
value chain. Therefore, Hohenstein's biological method could be beneficial for ultimate satisfaction and surety
regarding the organic content claims.

February/March 2021