LATEST NEWS

In 2009, Ashwood UK Ltd gained approval as a Marks & Spencers ISA approved laboratory. We have also registered for the forthcoming Tesco Laboratory Approval Scheme and our audit is scheduled for the summer of 2010. Tesco approval for all contract food laboratories will come into effect at the same time from 1st Janaury 2011.

We are continuing to invest in new equipment and can now offer UKAS accredited Water Activity analysis for foodstuffs, which is one of the most influencial factors in determining the quality and safety of a food product. Water activity is a measure of the amount of unbound water that is 'free to react' and is an index of how readily microrganisms will be able to grow in any given product and how quickly the product is likely to deteriorate.

We can also offer UKAS accredited allergen testing for soy, gluten and peanut. We intend to build on this scope with the additon of further allergens in the future, so please contact us with your allergen testing requirements. In addition to the allergen testing, we also offer UKAS accredited testing for Total Aflatoxin screening.

In addition to the above, we are now delighted to offer UKAS accredited VIDAS methods for detection of Salmonella and Listeria spp Both methods provide a faster turnaround time for pathogen analysis, which is vital in short shelf life products.

If you require any further information on any of the above methods, please contact Diane Woodburn, Technical Manager.