The Agriculture Laboratories Division provides testing services for the various regulatory bureaus within the Department. Samples are submitted by Department inspectors as part of regulatory investigations. In some cases, samples from other sources are accepted. Lab sections as as follows:
The Seed Lab tests agricultural, garden, and flower seeds for purity, germination, and weed seed content and special projects such as karnal bunt, honey quality tests, and other tests as requested.
The Feed Fertilizer and Ag Lime Lab tests feeds, fertilizers, and lime products for compliance with labeling claims. Occasionally, products are tested for adulteration.
The Dairies and Foods Lab tests samples of milk, milk products, and food products for wholesomeness and compliance with labeling claims. In cooperation with the HHSS State Epidemiologist and other city and county health departments, samples associated with foodborne illnesses are tested.
The Residue Laboratory tests samples from two major sources: (1) each year all dairies are tested for the presence of pesticide residues in their milk; and (2) environmental samples are tested under the cooperative Federal Insecticide Fungicide and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), also for the presence of pesticide residues. The Residue Laboratory also cooperates with other laboratories for the testing of other commodities and products for pesticide residues. The Agriculture Laboratories also administers a law which regulates soil laboratories operating in the state.
Related
Links