To get food tested for contamination, you have several options depending on your specific needs and location
1. Local Health Departments: Many local or state health departments offer food safety testing services or can direct you to approved laboratories. Contact your health department for procedures, costs, and what types of tests are available.
2. Food Testing Laboratories: There are commercial laboratories that specialize in food testing and can analyze food samples for various contaminants, such as bacteria, pesticides, and heavy metals. You can find these by searching online for "food testing laboratories" along with your location. Some well-known laboratories include Eurofins, SGS, and A&L Great Lakes.
3. University Extension Services: Many universities with agricultural or food science programs have extension services that may offer testing or can recommend specific labs. Check if any local universities provide food safety resources or testing.
4. Private Testing Kits: If you're looking for preliminary testing and don't require professional laboratory standards, there are consumer food testing kits available for purchase online or in specialty stores. These can test for specific contaminants, like bacteria or mycotoxins, but results may not be as reliable as those from a professional lab.
5. Food Safety Organizations: Organizations such as the FDA or USDA might provide resources to locate testing services. Additionally, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) may have information on testing for pesticide contamination.
6. Local Grocery Stores or Co-ops: Some grocery stores or health food cooperatives partner with testing labs and may provide testing services or know where you can get your food samples analyzed.
To ensure the best results, clarify what type of contamination you are concerned about and the specific tests required. Always check the credentials and certifications of any lab or service you choose to ensure they meet quality standards in food safety testing.