European Reference Laboratory (EURL) mycotoxins and plant toxins
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 analysis of mycotoxins and plant toxins in food and feed. 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?
Wageningen Food Safety Research (WFSR) is the European Reference Laboratory (EURL) and therefore the center of expertise for analysis of mycotoxins and plant toxins in food and feed.
The goal of an EURL is to ensure high-quality, uniform testing in the EU. EURLs are designated by the European Commission.
WFSR performs the tasks of European Union Reference Laboratory (EURL) for mycotoxins and plant toxins in food and feed according to Regulation (EU) 2017/625. The EURL mycotoxins & plant toxins works with the appointed National Reference Laboratories (NRLs) of the EU Member States and aims to facilitate the implementation of European legislation related to monitoring of mycotoxins and plant toxins in food of plant origin and feed.
Task of the European Union Reference Laboratory mycotoxins & plant toxins
The main task of the EURL mycotoxins & plant toxins is to ensure the availability of analytical methods for monitoring and control of mycotoxins and plant toxins in food and feed, and to ensure high quality method performance by the NRLs. In addition, the EURL mycotoxins & plant toxins provides scientific and technical assistance to the NRLs, the European Commission and other organisations. This is done through:
- method development, validation, and method comparisons for regulated and emerging toxins
- providing NRLs with details and guidance on analytical methods and analytical quality control
- organisation of inter-laboratory comparative testing or proficiency tests
- information exchange within the EURL-NRL network through workshops and training
- missions to laboratories within 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 any questions or would you like more information about our work as a European Reference Laboratory (EURL)? Please contact us.