Food Testing - Information for Food Importers

Where an imported food is directed for testing under the Imported Food Inspection Scheme (IFIS) the testing must be conducted by a laboratory appointed under Section 34 of the Imported Food Control Act 1992.

The importer/owner of the food (or their authorised agent) must nominate an appointed laboratory prior to booking an imported food inspection using the nomination form:

• Imported Food Inspection Scheme Laboratory Nomination Form PDF [118 KB]
• Imported Food Inspection Scheme Laboratory Nomination Form Word [96 KB]

Prior to nominating a laboratory, you must contact that laboratory to confirm that they are able to perform the tests assigned in the Food Control Certificate and that they are able to collect samples from the collection site as some laboratories do not service all areas.

The Testing Capabilities Matrix details the tests offered by each laboratory.

• Testing Capabilities Matrix PDF [1.2 MB] as at May 2012
• Testing Capabilities Matrix Word [2.6 MB] as at May 2012

Please note: The importer/owner is responsible for paying the laboratory test costs and that some laboratories may require a deposit prior to testing.

Further information about the process of nominating a laboratory can be found in the Imported Food Notice ‘Information required to support the assessment of Imported Food entries’.

If you have any questions about selecting an appointed analyst, please contact your Regional Office.