August 19, 2010
SDIX, Romer Labs distribution agreement extends accessibility to advanced GMO testing products
Press Release
SDIX, a leading provider of biotechnology-based products and services, has signed a distribution agreement with Romer Labs Inc. for SDIX''s genetically modified organisms (GMO) rapid testing products.
Under terms of the agreement, Romer Labs will have exclusive global distribution rights outside of Brazil to distribute SDIX''s TraitChek and SeedChek GMO test strip products.
TraitChek and SeedChek are easy to use, accurate, and affordable GMO detection systems for grain and seed. TraitChek tests enable rapid testing of grains for GMO at elevators and terminals. Visual results can be seen in 3-5 minutes, thereby expediting grain processing. SeedChek tests and ELISA plates are used to rapidly test seed lots for quality control requirements and leaf tissue in the field. Visual results for SeedChek can be seen in 3-5 minutes.
Transgenic seed varieties are marketed alongside conventional seed varieties. As a result, testing methods to determine the presence or absence of genetic traits is critical. SDIX offers both test strip and microwell ELISA plate test formats to meet the grain and seed testing demands for breeders, as well as grain, seed, and feed producers and consumers.
Tim Lawruk, SDIX food safety market manager, said, "As a world leader in diagnostic solutions for the feed and grain safety market, Romer Labs is an excellent partner for SDIX and this collaborative distribution agreement will quickly provide important benefits to both companies. Romer will have access to SDIX''s advanced portfolio of rapid GMO detection technologies and SDIX will have access to a significant new global customer base through Romer''s extensive worldwide sales and marketing organisation. In addition, it will enable SDIX to focus more of its sales and marketing resources on driving its Food Safety activities."
According to Michael Prinster, CEO of Romer Labs Inc., "The cooperation between SDIX and Romer Labs will be beneficial for both sides. It will allow Romer Labs to get one step closer to our vision of becoming the number one provider of diagnostic solutions at all stages of the agricultural, food, and feed industry supply chain by being able to offer a range of well established and received GMO tests, in addition to its range of test systems for mycotoxins, food allergens, and veterinary drug residues. It will also allow SDIX immediate access to a global distribution network in the area of food safety via Romer Labs subsidiaries and distributors."
Hannes Binder, CEO of Romer Labs Division Holding GmbH. in Austria, said, "This agreement once more demonstrates Romer Labs position as a leading provider of diagnostic solutions in the agriculture, food and feed industries. In addition, Romer''s established kit development and intensive research and development activities make it an attractive cooperation and distribution partner for complimentary products like those from SDIX."