Proficiency tests for barley varietal identification

Variety is an important consideration when barley is selected for malting purposes and some delivery contracts include a 95% varietal purity requirement. DNA-based tests are used to identify barley varieties and purity. Single kernel tests assess the DNA obtained from an individual kernel while bulked grind tests assess DNA from the ground grain of many kernels. In 2023, the Canadian Grain Commission developed and prepared two DNA-based proficiency tests for barley varietal identification based on these two testing methods.

Single kernel test

Pure DNA samples from 12 barley varieties and a negative control sample, all in triplicate, are provided by the Canadian Grain Commission. Participating laboratories are required to identify the variety corresponding to each sample, as well as the negative control samples.

Bulked grind test

DNA samples from 6 barley varieties and a negative control sample are provided by the Canadian Grain Commission. There are three samples for each barley variety, each provided at a different level of purity, and the negative control sample is provided in triplicate. Participating laboratories are required to identify the predominant variety in each sample and indicate if the sample is above or below the 95% purity threshold. Participants are also required to identify the negative control samples.

Laboratories participating in proficiency testing can use their method of choice to complete the tests and are required to report on their results.

Laboratories proficient in single kernel testing in 2024

Laboratories proficient in bulked grind testing in 2024