AINIA / Interlaboratory tests

Interlaboratory tests

Guarantee the reliability and quality of your microbiological tests

Microbiological analysis intercomparisons

AINIA annually organises microbiological analysis intercomparison tests, with the aim of enabling companies to evaluate their analytical methodologies, verify the validity of their results and compare themselves with laboratories performing the same tests.

At AINIA, we add value

5 reasons to participate

In a context of increasing regulatory requirements and greater focus on the reliability of analytical results, intercomparison tests have become a key tool for demonstrating the technical competence of the laboratory. Especially in audits and third-party assessments, having objective evidence of analytical performance is decisive for meeting the requirements of standards such as IFS and BRCGS, as well as for strengthening the trust of customers and authorities.

Participation in intercomparison tests makes it possible to objectively and documentarily demonstrate the laboratory’s performance to customers, regulatory authorities and accreditation and certification bodies, strengthening confidence in analytical results.

Intercomparison tests are a key tool for meeting the technical requirements of food safety standards such as IFS and BRCGS, especially in the evaluation of laboratories and analytical service providers.

They facilitate comparison of the laboratory’s performance with other participants, ensuring the reproducibility, traceability and consistency of the results obtained.

They make it possible to identify deviations, improvement opportunities and adjustment needs in methods, equipment or technical competencies, reinforcing analytical quality assurance.

They provide reliable technical evidence to support operational decisions, internal validations and responses to incidents, complaints or requirements from customers and authorities.

Guarantees of reliability and quality in sample preparation

In AINIA intercomparison tests, we work with a pre-contaminated food matrix ready to be analysed, as if it were a food product. No handling or vial reconstitution is required, which significantly reduces errors associated with sample preparation and improves the comparability and reliability of analytical results among the different participants.

All of this is supported by an approach based on quality and technical competence. AINIA operates under ISO 17025 accreditation.

Intercomparisons 2026

What does it involve?

AINIA prepares pre-contaminated samples with hygiene indicator microorganisms (mesophilic aerobic count, Enterobacteriaceae, coliforms, among others), as well as pathogenic microorganisms (detection of Salmonella spp., detection of Listeria monocytogenes, among others). These are sent to the participating entity to be analysed as if they were a food product.

Results management is carried out through an easy-access online platform with high confidentiality standards. Participating companies can enter results progressively and, after statistical analysis, each participant receives a personalised report with the evaluation and analysis of their results.

AINIA annually develops sector-specific microbiological analysis intercomparison tests that take into account the particularities of each product type.

Aimed at…

Intercomparison studies 2026
Consists of 2 rounds with 2 analysis samples.

Special conditions for AINIA member companies

10% discount on the intercomparison fee.

Tailor-made interlaboratory tests

Sector requirements are diverse and require specific analyses, which is why AINIA offers the design and execution of tailor-made exercises with the parameters of interest for a group of companies*

*subject to a minimum number of participating companies

Maximum confidentiality

Participant data and assessment results will be treated with absolute confidentiality from registration in the programme.

Technical team

AINIA has a technical team with extensive experience in microbiological analysis and analytical techniques for its detection. AINIA is available to companies or laboratories that have experienced deviations in results or technical complications in the methodologies used, to provide support, technical assistance or training to improve their business.

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Ester Gallego

Microbiology Laboratory

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