ISO/TS 21569-5:2016 specifies a procedure for the detection of a DNA sequence used in genetically modified (GM) plants by means of a real-time PCR (polymerase chain reaction). The method detects a 78 base pairs long segment of the Figwort mosaic virus 34S promoter DNA sequence. This segment in some GM plants is indicated as FMV promoter (P-FMV) and in other GM plants as FMV enhancer (E-FMV).

The method was developed and validated for the analysis of DNA extracted from foodstuffs. It may be suitable also for analysis of other products such as feedstuffs and seeds. The procedure requires the extraction of an adequate quantity and quality of amplifiable DNA from the test sample.

The DNA sequence amplified by the P-FMV element-specific method can be detected in samples which contain DNA of the naturally occurring Figwort mosaic virus. For this reason, it is necessary to confirm a positive screening result. Further analyses are required using construct-specific or event specific methods.