b'PARTNER CONTENTKeeping Pace with Technological Change Requires Seed Labs to up Their GameSuccessfully adopting new technologies isnt as simple as putting a new machine in the lab. It requires regulatory and industry know-how that only comes from experience. M y journey in seed analysis began nearly 30that we can collaborate with, and we also tap into our years ago, more by chance than by choice. Overglobal connections. We work closely with colleagues the years, what started as a job has turned into aaround the world, through organizations like the passion, fueled by the ever-changing landscape ofCanadian Food Inspection Agency and the International technology. Whats become clear to me is that it isntSeed Testing Association, to make sure that our meth-just the technology that sets a seed lab apart from theods and services are up to the highest standards.packits the people who make up that labs teamThe challenge is to ensure that as seed technology who truly unlock the potential of these technologicaladvances, our analytical methods advance with it, main-By Trevoradvancements. taining the highest standards of quality and reliability.Nysetvold, Director, SGSInnovation in seed analysis is moving at a remark- In July, our lab in Sherwood Park, Alta., hosted a Canada Cropable pace, and the integration of technologies like arti- group of attendees from the Seeds Canada annual con-Science ficial intelligence (AI) and robotics is at the heart of thisference. This event was an opportunity to demonstrate evolution. AI, particularly through machine learning andhow were expanding our services beyond traditional image analysis, is enhancing our ability to understandseed analysis. The aim was to show that seed analysis and predict seed performance. Its not about replacingis just one part of what we do. The real strength lies in human expertise but augmenting it, allowing us to stayour team of experts, who bring a deep well of knowl-View the Seed Worldahead in a rapidly changing industry. edge and dedication to every project.Visits video of our recent lab tour heldRobotics is another area where were seeing sig- Our operations extend beyond our Sherwood during the Seedsnificant innovation. By automating tasks that are dull,Park lab. With facilities in Alberta, Ontario and South Canada conferencedirty, or dangerous, were not just improving efficiencyDakotathe latter being home to the largest private in Edmonton! Visit were making strides in safety and sustainability.seed lab in the worldwere well-positioned to tackle seedworld.com/SGS Reducing human exposure to hazardous chemicals isthe diverse challenges of seed analysis across North a key benefit, aligning with broader goals of creatingAmerica. Our work in genomics, field research, and safer, more sustainable working environments. analytical chemistry allows us to offer a wide range Analytical chemistry is another exciting frontier,of services, tailored to the unique needs of different allowing us to focus on active ingredients, which broad- regions and crops.ens the scope of what we can analyze.What truly sets our team apart is not just our access All the above innovations arent just about addingto cutting-edge technology, but the professional services; theyre about evolving our capabilities to meetcompetency, commitment, and collaborative spirit that the complex needs of todays seed industry. Its a pro- drive our work every day. Its a privilege to lead such cess that requires collaboration, something a successfula dedicated group, and Im eager to see where these seed lab must actively do to ensure theyre keepinginnovations will take us in the years to come.pace with the change taking place out there. Our team membersespecially those managing When it comes to new crops and species, my firstthe operational sideare going to experience more step is always to consult with regulators. They providetechnological change in the next five to 10 years than guidance on where these new crops fit within theIve seen in the last 28. And thats saying something, Canadian Methods and Procedures for Seed Testing.considering I was around when the internet was first If a new species doesnt neatly fall into an existingintroduced. category, the next step is to find similarities with otherIts an incredibly exciting time for seed analysis species.because these changes arent about replacing what we From there, we embark on an extensive validationdotheyre about enhancing it. The possibilities that process to ensure that the services were offering forthis new technology will unlock for us are truly remark-that new crop or species are reliable. able, but its only the most experienced people who This validation isnt something we do in isolation. Wewill unlock that potential and bring it to those who can have a strong network of labs within our organizationbenefit from it.SEPTEMBER 2024 SEEDWORLD.COM/CANADA 47'