Mali, though rich in agricultural resources, imports a significant portion of its food to meet the needs of its growing population. These foods, sourced from various countries, may include genetically modified organisms (GMOs), whose distribution is subject to strict regulations. The Cartagena Protocol, ratified by Mali, mandates rigorous monitoring of GMO circulation to avoid risks to biodiversity and human health. In this study, we aimed to detect the presence of GMOs in 197 food items (fruits, vegetables, and cereals) collected in the Bamako district using specific genetic markers (P-35s, T-NOS, P-FMV). Our PCR analyzes revealed that 9.6% of samples were positive for at least one GMO construction marker, without labeling in compliance with regulations. These results indicate an informal circulation of GMOs in Bamako markets, raising concerns about the implementation of biosafety laws in Mali, the lack of transparency for consumers, and a potential threat to biodiversity preservation. We recommend a review of food safety policies, strengthened controls at entry points, and increased awareness of the risks associated with unlabeled GMOs.

Keywords: GMO, labeling, detection, PCR, construction markers, Mali