Experienced in testing food for 30 years, ILS’ expertise in this field are second to none. This busy department, with over 70 staff, processes between 5000 – 7000 samples per week on average.

The food-testing laboratory is open 7 days a week, from 6am to midnight, to ensure a speedy and efficient service. Our Sample Collection service is operated free of charge subject to a minimum collection (dependant on location) and is offered to ensure the safe, temperature controlled delivery of your samples to our facility.

ILS’ investment in Kiestra Lab Automation has led not only to a significant increase in sample capacity with the same number of staff, but also an enhanced quality of testing and service.

This purpose built facility incorporates:

• 6 walk in incubators
• Separate media and pour plate preparation areas
• Walk in refrigeration and freezer stores
• Quality Services section

In addition we have two automated sample testing “production lines” and a plate pourer capable of producing 1000 plates / hour.

Our testing range is covered by our UKAS accreditation, and is not exclusive to this scope. We are DEFRA - Veterinary Laboratory Association approved for Salmonella and Enterobacteriaceae analysis. We are happy to work to your in-house / preferred methods, prices on application.

Testing conducted includes:

• Microbial Quality Determination
• Pathogen Testing with Species Identification
• Environmental Hygiene Monitoring
• Shelf-life Determination, in a range of temperature controlled environments
• Water Testing

In January 2006 the EU Microbiology Criteria for Foodstuffs became law. more info here

Some areas of the Microbiology of Drinking Water 2002 have also been changed in 2007. more info here