S26 - Quality Control in Research Labs

Glen 201-202
Organizers: Phyllis Jenkins
Convenors: Phyllis Jenkins and Karen Battista

1:30 International Standards for Laboratory Quality Systems — Christina Oscroft, Campden & Chorleywood Food Research Association, Gloucestershire, UK

1:55 Proficiency Testing as a Tool for Laboratory Quality Assurance — Arlene Fox, AOAC International, Gaithersburg, MD, USA

2:20 Laboratory Quality Programs for a Contract Lab — A Gold Standard —Mark Carter , Silliker, Inc., Columbus, OH, USA

2:45 Harmonizing Global Laboratory Quality Assurance Requirements — Loralyn Ledenbach, Kraft Foods, Glenview, IL, USA

Abstract
Food manufacturers use microbiological data to ensure the quality and safety of their products. These data may be generated by the manufacturers’ internal laboratory or by contract laboratories. The manufacturers must use due diligence to ensure that these laboratories provide accurate, reliable data that is capable of withstanding legal scrutiny. Erroneous data can lead to negative and costly consequences. Assurance of accurate data is generally achieved through a laboratory quality assurance program of some kind. With increasing globalization within the food industry, an understanding of what constitutes a good and acceptable laboratory quality assurance program from a global perspective is essential. In this symposium speakers from industry, research (CCFRA) and AOAC will discuss the basic requirements for a good laboratory program, ideas on harmonization of global standards, tools for measuring the effectiveness of these programs and international standards.