Assessment of Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) Content in Imported Soybean Products in Nigerian Retail Markets Using Quantitative PCR

The global expansion of genetically modified (GM) crop cultivation has intensified regulatory debates in Nigeria regarding GM food labeling, traceability, and consumer rights. Imported soybean-based food products sold in Nigerian markets may contain transgenic material from GM varieties authorized in exporting countries but not yet fully regulated domestically. This study assessed the GMO content of imported soybean products from retail outlets across Lagos, Abuja, and Kano using quantitative PCR (qPCR). Forty-five soybean flour, meal, and processed food products were obtained, and DNA was extracted using a modified CTAB protocol. Event-specific qPCR assays for Roundup Ready (RRS) and Intacta RR2 Pro soybean events were employed alongside the endogenous lectin gene as a reference. GMO content was detected in 60% of sampled products. Quantification showed that 13 products exceeded a 1% GMO threshold, the benchmark proposed in Nigeria's draft GMO labeling regulations. No currently approved Nigerian GM events were found, indicating the detected material originated from foreign-authorized transgenic lines. These results highlight critical gaps in Nigeria's GMO import surveillance and labeling enforcement framework. Keywords: GMO detection, soybean, quantitative PCR, food labeling, Nigeria.