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Introduction to OMAFRA's Laboratory Program

Author: Research and Innovation Branch Staff/OMAFRA
Creation Date: 08 September 2003
Last Reviewed: 08 August 2005
Laboratory Program

In accordance with the Enhanced Partnership Agreement, laboratory support for OMAFRA's food and animal programs is provided by Laboratory Services of the University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario.

The University of Guelph operates an agri-food laboratory and an animal health laboratory (Lab Services) which provides diagnostic support to the ministry, the food industry and the province's livestock and poultry producers.

OMAFRA's Laboratory Program involves analytical diagnostics to support the province's dairy, meat, horticulture, animal health and agricultural programs. Laboratory analysis also plays a key role in the surveillance of animal health in order to support the safe trade of livestock, products and foods of animal origin, and the protection of public health.

Agriculture

Laboratory analysis is carried out to detect pesticide residues, trace chemicals and contaminants in food, crops, soil and water. Ontario's soil and water data are integral components to OMAFRA's participation in Federal-Provincial Agreements. Combined with other ministries data they assist experts in following the effects of modern agricultural practices on wildlife, soil and water in the Great Lakes Basin. Pest diagnostic services are used for the identification of plant diseases, nematodes and insect identification.

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Animal Health

Animal disease surveillance is the responsibility of OMAFRA. The analysis of specimens from a variety of food animal species provides a valuable source of provincial disease information. This data is an integral part of OMAFRA's Ontario Animal Health Surveillance Network (AHSN) in maintaining healthy livestock and safe food in Ontario.

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Dairy

Laboratory analysis is carried out on raw milk and finished products to ensure compliance with the regulations under the Ontario Milk Act and to contribute to the health and safety of milk and milk products for consumers.

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Horticulture

Laboratory analysis of foods of plant origin is carried out to maintain consumer confidence in the food supply and ensure the ministry's commitment to a healthy and sustainable environment. Data from the analysis of chemical residues, pathogens, heavy metals and residues in food products supports the ministry's production method recommendations.

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Meat

Laboratory analysis is carried out to ensure compliance with the regulations under the Ontario Meat Inspection Act and to contribute to the health and safety of meat products in Ontario.

 

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