Registration for 2010 Now Open! The Check Sample program provides a cost effective means for the comparison and evaluation of laboratory testing capabilities with regard to both precision and accuracy. This program is available to both members and non-members.  For more information please contact the ASTA office at (202) 367-1127.    Click Here for Key 2010 Study Dates  Why Laboratories Participate   Although methods, procedures and guidelines to perform analytical tests on herbs and spices are provided in various official manuals (see ASTA's Analytical Methods Manual), there are still disagreements between laboratories and uncertainties within laboratories as to the accuracy and precision of laboratory tests. Laboratories have a responsibility to provide accurate test results.   When there are discrepancies, it can create a lack of confidence in the laboratories and disharmony between buyers and sellers.   The discrepancies result from many factors such as sampling procedures, analytical equipment, cleaning procedures, temperature, grinding, weighing and personnel training. A small difference in each of these areas may combine to cause significantly different results from lab to lab. These disagreements have traditionally been settled through retesting, resampling and retesting, or through arbitration.   The purpose of the Check Sample Program is to be able to compare your results to those of other laboratories.    How the Check Sample Program Works   The 2010 Check Sample program begins in January and it runs through December. Each participating laboratory receives quarterly samples of:   Black Pepper: Tested for Volatile Oil, Moisture, Piperine, and Water Activity  Capsicums: Tested for HPLC Heat, ASTA Color, and Water Activity      When a laboratory enrolls in the program, it receives a confidential identification number.   Each quarter laboratories receive a package containing the samples and the worksheet. Each participating lab has approximately 30 days to complete the analyses and return a worksheet to the ASTA office via fax or e-mail. ASTA compiles the results and generates a compilation report, which will include laboratory results by confidential identification number. This gives participants the opportunity to compare and examine their results against other laboratories in the program.