International seed sampling workshop: Experts from 15 countries arrive in Hungary

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“Professional sampling is a key element of the seed certification system due to the reliability of laboratory results. For Nébih, it is of utmost importance that the domestic system is in line with the international rules and practices of ISTA. Such a prestigious professional event creates an opportunity for knowledge sharing, methodological standardization and strengthening international relations, which directly contributes to the competitiveness of the Hungarian seed sector.” – emphasized Gábor Kokavecz, Head of the Seed Inspection Department of Nébih. The workshop aims to provide a comprehensive picture of seed sampling and the quality assurance requirements related to sampling for different plant species. At the same time, it provides a forum for discussing sampling methods and jointly analyzing practical issues. Its significance lies in supporting the uniform application of the ISTA Rules and international professional harmonization, thereby contributing to the reliability of seed trade and maintaining the quality assurance standard. It also creates an opportunity for domestic professionals to learn about the latest international methodological knowledge. Specialists from seed testing laboratories, employees of sampling organizations, and experts working in the seed sector are coming to the professional event from 15 countries – Europe, Africa and Asia. During the four days of the workshop, they will participate in various professional lectures and practical training, part of the latter of which will take place at the Alisca-Mag Kft. site in Sárbogárd. “Accurate and regular sampling is of fundamental importance in seed production, as the entire certification process is based on it. Such an international workshop provides an opportunity for practitioners to learn first-hand about the latest professional guidelines of ISTA, as well as to have direct professional contact with international experts.” – added Péter Varga, representative of the Seed Association, laboratory manager of Alisca-Mag Kft.

ISTA: a hundred years for the seed sector

The history of the International Seed Testing Association (ISTA), which is currently present in 83 countries, dates back to the end of the 19th century, when Friedrich Nobbe founded the first scientifically based seed testing laboratory in Germany in 1869. The idea of ​​​​unified seed testing grew out of this professional endeavor. ISTA was officially founded in Cambridge in 1924 with the participation of 26 countries – including Hungary. The first international seed testing rules were adopted in 1931, which still form one of the foundations of international seed trade. Over the past hundred years, the organization has continuously expanded its system of rules and accreditation program and plays a decisive role in the international harmonization of seed quality assurance.

The role of Nébih in the safety of crop production

Plant protection and crop production supervision are a key strategic area within the organization of Nébih, and within this, the control of the quality and safety of seeds also plays a major role. By testing, classifying and officially inspecting seeds, the experts of the office contribute to ensuring that producers receive reliable, high-quality propagation material. Laboratory tests and metal sealing procedures ensure that the seeds placed on the market meet the relevant professional and legal requirements. Last year, Nébih conducted the qualification tests required for the metal sealing of seeds on a total of 7,500 samples, thus supporting the development of the sector.

Nébih