Using a statistical approach, sampling plans for the semiquantitative detection of genetically modified (GM) canola within a bulk seed sample can be developed and tailored to meet different GM thresholds, costs, and confidence limits. This is achieved by changing the number of subsamples analyzed, the number of seeds per subsample, and the percentage of positive results allowed. These sampling plans must be devised carefully, taking into account the detection capability of the analytical assay. This is particularly important in the case of InVigor (a registered trademark of Bayer CropScience) canola, for which expression levels of the introduced protein in seed are very low. Lateral flow assays and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) were both investigated for their suitability as a qualitative assay using a subsampling approach. On the basis of an ELISA, several sampling plans have been devised and validated to provide at least 99% confidence that bulk seed samples containing at least 0.9% (w/w) InVigor canola will be detected. Although the term 'seed' is used throughout this paper to refer to the canola, the term 'seed' is to be taken to include both seed and the canola seed (grain) that is harvested by the farmer/grower.