Avestha Gerigraine Technologies Pvt Ltd has entered into a strategic alliance with Genetic ID of the US, a world leader in testing food products, for genetically modified organisms (GMOs). "The implications of this strategic alliance are very exciting," Genetic ID chairman and chief executive John Fagan said.

Under the agreement, Avestha Gengraine will be able to sell its GMO-testing services not only in India but also in Sri Lanka and Pakistan. However, companies from other countries too can bring their products to the Company for testing. "We will offer a whole range of tests to detect any GMO which has ever been commercialized," Fagan added.

With this tie up, Avestha Gengraine has become a part of Genetic ID's Global Laboratory Alliance, which is spread over 19 countries. When asked if Genetic ID would pick equity stake in the company, Fagan said there have been no discussions to this effect.

Avestha Gengraine is promoted by Dr. Villoo Morawala Patell, who is the founder and Chief Executive of the company. According to Fagan, a certification from Avestha Gengraine will help Indian exporters of food products get a premium in overseas markets. "Soybean exported from North America is genetically engineered, while that from Brazil is not. That is why soybean from, Brazil commands a premium of $10-17 per metric tonne," Fagan added.