DNA Isolation from Corn-Based Foods utilizes a magnetic purification system where students can isolate DNA from a selection of food products including corn chips and cornmeal. Samples are analyzed via agarose gel electrophoresis or spectrophotometry.
Key Topics:
- Genomic DNA Isolation from Food
Consider pairing this lab with one of the following:
DNA Extraction from Fruit: Compare DIY DNA isolation with DNA isolation techniques suitable for downstream applications.
Plasmid DNA Isolation: Compare genomic DNA isolation from food and plasmid DNA isolation from bacteria.
PCR (to Detect for Genetically Modified Foods): Take this lab one step further and analyze corn-based food DNA for genetic modification.
This field trip is categorized as an Introductory field trip and is geared toward students that are middle school level or above. This Field Trip utilizes a more sophisticated set of molecular concepts and asks students to relate those concepts to the world around them. In order to guarantee that your students benefit, prior experience with agarose gel electrophoresis and the use of micropipettes is highly recommended.
Length of Field Trip: 1 – 2 hours
Cost of Field Trip: $80 for up to 16 students; $5 for every additional student
