National Reference Laboratory for genetically modified organisms

The FSA and FSS are responsible for Official Feed and Food Controls across the UK. The UK has a legal obligation to appoint NRLs for feed and food. NRLs provide advice and support to food, feed, and food contact materials enforcement laboratories and the FSA and FSS to ensure a harmonised approach to food safety enforcement. NRLs are responsible for setting standards for routine procedures and reliable testing methods in the regulated areas of feed and food. This delivers consumer protection and effective, risk-based, and proportionate regulation and enforcement. The appointed laboratory will carry out the provision of services for the UK NRL for genetically modified organisms (GMOs). The NRL for GMOs will provide support to the UK OLs for GMO testing and will be required to identify and participate as an independent expert at international GMO meetings and networks to build expertise and knowledge in the area. The contract will be delivered over four years, starting 1st April 2025, to end 31st March 2029. There will be an optional 2-year extension that can be enacted by variation. The applicant is required to submit a quote covering the full 4 years period and are encouraged to provide intelligent estimates for the lifespan of the contract at the outset, considering any foreseen increases (or decreases) over time. If significant changes need to be made throughout the contract, then these will be discussed, as necessary, with the appointed contractor.