Methods validation: AOAC's three validation systems

Abstract

Validated methods of analysis are needed for many purposes: enforcement of regulations, import/export control, in accredited laboratories, academia, institutions. The AOAC INTERNATIONAL Official Methods Program is designed to provide fully validated methods of analysis, based on interlaboratory testing by a minimum of eight laboratories. Another, lesser validation system is used for peer-verified methods of analysis where two or three laboratories participate. The system for performance testing of test kits is specially designed for a thorough testing of manufacturer claims, and can be obtained by submitting a kit to Performance Testing by the AOAC Research Institute. © 2005 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.