European Reference Laboratory (EURL) growth promotors
About this expertise
In short- Center of expertise
- Ensure high-quality, uniform testing in the EU
- Scientific and technical support to the NRLs
- Support Europese Commissie
Wageningen Food Safety Research (WFSR) is the European Reference Laboratory (EURL) and therefore the center of expertise for the analysis of food-producing animals and food of animal origin for the presence of residues of hormonal growth promoters, tranquilizers, and antiviral drugs. The goal of an EURL is to ensure high-quality, uniform testing in the EU. EURLs are designated by the European Commission.
How to ensure high quality uniform testing within the EU?
The main task of this EURL is to ensure the availability of analytical methods for the monitoring and control of hormonal growth promoters, tranquilizers, and mycotoxins in food of animal origin, and to ensure the high quality of method implementation by the NRLs. In addition, the EURL provides scientific and technical support to the NRLs, the European Commission, and other organizations.
This is done through:
• Method development, validation, and comparisons for regulated and emerging growth promoters
• Providing details and guidance to NRLs on analytical methods and analytical quality control
• Supplying analytical standards and reference materials to national reference laboratories in EU Member States and other countries exporting food of animal origin to the EU
• Information exchange within the EURL-NRL network through workshops and training
• Missions to laboratories in the EU and third countries
Tasks
Proficiency tests
The EURLs organise proficiency tests for the NRLs. This gives the NRLs a chance to evaluate the suitability and quality of their laboratory equipment, methods and staff.
Annual workshop
The annual workshop is the meeting moment for representatives of NRLs, EURL and the European Commission for network building and exchange of information. Recurring subjects are: new legislation, newest developments in analytical methodology and new proficiency tests.
Guest speakers are invited or expert of the institutes will present the newest developments. The future work program is compiled, based on consultation of the Commission and the representatives of the NRLs.
Reference standards
The EURL for growth promoters, sedatives and mycotoxins in food of animal origin produces analytical reference standards for QA/QC assistance and provide reference materials to the NRLs. Many of the provided substances are not commercially available.
Training courses
The EURLs organise training for groups and individuals, seeking to update or expand their knowledge and skills in analytical methods and quality control within an EU regulatory framework.
Our aim is to create a learning experience for each NRL directed to improving skills applicable in their control laboratories. Training is organised at WFSR first class facilities by experienced staff. The analytical services and training activities aim at governmental research laboratories in EU Member States, Candidate Member States and Third countries.
Proficiency tests
The EURLs organise proficiency tests for the NRLs. This gives the NRLs a chance to evaluate the suitability and quality of their laboratory equipment, methods and staff.
Annual workshop
The annual workshop is the meeting moment for representatives of NRLs, EURL and the European Commission for network building and exchange of information. Recurring subjects are: new legislation, newest developments in analytical methodology and new proficiency tests.
Guest speakers are invited or expert of the institutes will present the newest developments. The future work program is compiled, based on consultation of the Commission and the representatives of the NRLs.
Reference standards
The EURL for growth promoters, sedatives and mycotoxins in food of animal origin produces analytical reference standards for QA/QC assistance and provide reference materials to the NRLs. Many of the provided substances are not commercially available.
Training courses
The EURLs organise training for groups and individuals, seeking to update or expand their knowledge and skills in analytical methods and quality control within an EU regulatory framework.
Our aim is to create a learning experience for each NRL directed to improving skills applicable in their control laboratories. Training is organised at WFSR first class facilities by experienced staff. The analytical services and training activities aim at governmental research laboratories in EU Member States, Candidate Member States and Third countries.
Questions or need more information?
Do you have questions or would you like to learn more about our work as the European Union Reference Laboratory (EURL)? Please contact us.