IFSH Center for Specialty Programs

The proficiency testing program at the Institute for Food Safety and Health (IFSH) produces proficiency testing (PT) samples for both FDA and USDA food safety programs. The center also manages the food chemistry and microbiology proficiency testing programs for the Food Emergency Response Network (FERN). Laboratory performance is tested by challenging analysts with simulated samples to test within their normal operating conditions in order to produce an interlaboratory comparison.

IFSH expects to make proficiency testing services available to food industry members in the future. As the PT program expands, the laboratory will enter the process of ISO 17043 certification and expects to offer additional analytical capabilities, such as freeze dried proficiency testing samples.