How are the samples obtained?
The method of obtaining samples is easy and pain free. As DNA is contained in almost all cells of the body, there is no need to take a blood sample. Instead, a swab is taken from the inside cheek of the person being tested. Loose cells are picked up on the swab and these are then sent in for analysis in a laboratory. If you want the paternity test purely for your own personal knowledge, then the sample can be collected in the comfort of your own home. If however, you want the test for legal reasons (such as child maintenance), then the sample must be taken by a doctor and proof of identity provided.
In the past, samples have been collected mainly using a market research company at retail level. During 2003 (following a public consultation about the programme) we have undertaken a pilot exercise to also use the Horticultural Marketing Inspectors (HMI)and Plant Health & Seed Inspectors (PHSI) to take samples at non-retail sources for lettuce, potatoes, apples, peaches and nectarines. This enables the samples to be more representative of the supply chain. In 2004, we are again using HMI and PHSI, to collect samples of apples, grapes, potatoes and tomatoes. Samples are collected from 24 different UK centres from sources including: • major supermarkets • local shops and market stalls • farm shops • wholesale • ports For most surveys, samples are collected over a 3-month period and reported quarterly. Where, as in the case of most fruit and vegetables or bread, there is wide seasonal variation in the source of supply (and hence the pesticide residues likely to be found) samples may be c
Related Questions
- At the pre-bid meeting that was held on Friday, March 17 it was stated that the Department had obtained some soil samples for this project. Does the Contractor still need to obtain samples as well?
- What samples should be obtained if I suspect a pet is infected with the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus?
- Can other forms of DNA samples be used or must the DNA sample be obtained from the cheek cells?
