Seed health and phytosanitary research
About the expertise
In short- Diagnostics and detection of diseases and pests
- Validation and proficiency testing
- Development of customised assays and optimisation of workflows
- Research supporting development and implementation of phytosanitary legislation
- Training and audits for laboratories and inspection services
We support seed breeding companies, growers and authorities with rapid and reliable diagnostics for plant and seed health, method validation and practical advice on phytosanitary requirements. This helps to safeguard trade flows and prevent delays or costly rejections.
Clean starting material is essential for food security and international trade. Wageningen University & Research (WUR) offers an end-to-end approach to seed and plant health and phytosanitary assurance — from fast, sensitive detection (including qPCR, LAMP, Luminex and high-throughput sequencing techniques (HTS)) to practical validation and proficiency testing, also on coated or treated seeds.
We develop tailor-made assays for specific organisms, optimise workflows and sampling procedures, and translate test results into clear decision support for quality assurance and export documentation. In addition, we advise on (international) regulations (EPPO/EU/NVWA) and quarantine protocols, and provide training for laboratories and inspection bodies. Thanks to our broad expertise and extensive lab-, greenhouse- and field facilities, every solution can be tested directly in practice.
What do we offer?
We develop and validate qPCR and LAMP assays and HTS workflows for the specific detection of (quarantine) plant- and seed pathogens. Coated or treated seeds can also be tested reliably. In addition, we conduct epidemiological research to understand how pathogens spread through plant material, soil and air, and what measures are needed for effective control.
Our proficiency tests demonstrate the reliability of methods (sensitivity, specificity, reproducibility) and accelerate international acceptance.
We translate complex requirements into workable protocols for sampling and reporting, helping companies to meet export and import conditions efficiently.
Through practical training and audits, we strengthen the capacity of laboratories and inspection services worldwide.
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Contact us
For more information, contact us.
dr.ir. BA (Bart) Fraaije
Expert diagnostics & phytosanitary research