Pesticide Residue Lab
The Pesticide Residue Laboratory located in Auburn was established to provide reliable analyses of raw agricultural products, processed agricultural products, and materials used in the production of agricultural products for the presence of harmful pesticide residues. Information obtained by the lab is used to protect public health, monitor agricultural commodities for the presence of harmful pesticide residues, protect and expand Alabama's agricultural markets, and protect the environment. Samples submitted to the lab for analysis include eggs, milk, poultry, beef, fish, vegetables, water, soil, and value-added foods.
The lab operates two testing programs. The Request Program involves samples of an unusual nature, difficult chemistry, or samples with legal implications. The Monitoring Program collects and analyzes samples of agricultural commodities from across the state. The information obtained from these samples is used to protect consumers and maintain the competitiveness of Alabama's farmers.