A “standard” is an agreed, repeatable protocol for performing analytical tests. Standards contains technical specifications and criteria designed to be used consistently.

To develop standards, AOAC acts as a convener, bringing together experts to identify gaps in food safety testing and to create scientific standards that accurately and reliably fill those gaps.

AOAC organizes volunteers from industry, government, nonprofits, and academia to participate in workgroups focusing on specific food safety testing needs. These expert stakeholders first define specifically what is needed in a test, then evaluate the reliability and accuracy of testing solutions submitted by scientists. Standards that pass this “consensus” scrutiny are accepted as valid by the global analytical community.

AOAC’s published standards are used by government agencies regulating food and food-related products, as well as by food manufacturers to ensure their products are compliant.