Knowledge-technology-based discovery of unauthorized genetically modified organisms.

Various legislations worldwide provide a framework for the authorization of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and products derived therefrom [1]. Despite these regulations, novel GMOs occasionally enter the market without authorization [2–22] (Table 1) and are referred to as unauthorized GMOs (UGMs). The presence of UGMs in food and feed raises safety and labeling concerns, and challenges international trade [23, 24]. Recently reported UGM incidents have created an urgent need to harmonize regulations at a global level, and call for appropriate strategies to discover UGMs. However, some novel UGMs are intrinsically difficult to detect using current analytical strategies for reasons outlined herein. We therefore propose a paradigm shift in the way UGMs can be discovered: a documentationbased screening for products that potentially contain UGMs using knowledge technologies, followed by analytical confirmation. Here, we will describe the main concepts of the novel approach, illustrate it with a case study, and outline benefits, limitations, and complementarities compared with the current analytical detection strategy.