SGS BioVision is pleased to announce that it has successfully met the International Seed Testing Association (ISTA) lab accreditation requirements to deliver sampling and testing for a large variety of commercially relevant seeds and coated seeds. ISTA’s vision is to provide uniformity in seed quality evaluation globally.
“This significant accreditation strengthens our commitment to supporting the Canadian seed trade industry and our clients with meeting global export requirements,” says Trevor Nysetvold, director of Seed and Crop.
Through this accreditation, SGS BioVision’s lab in Sherwood Park, Alberta will be capable of issuing Canadian seed organizations with ISTA Orange International Certificates (OIC) or Blue International Certificates (BIC) based on the requirements of the importing country. Testing covers:
- Purity Testing
- Determination of Other Seeds
- Germination
- Viability
- Moisture Content
- Seed Weight Determination
These tests are available for grasses, cereals, legumes, pulses, vegetables, flowers, and other agricultural crops such as the brassica species. On the sampling side, the lab will be carrying out manual sampling from a lot to obtain a representative sample for testing.
Founded in 1924 and with member laboratories in over 70 countries, ISTA is an authority in seed science and technology. The organization works on developing standard seed testing methods, facilitates the trade of quality seeds and makes a valuable contribution to food security. The accreditation of the Sherwood Park lab strengthens SGS’ ISTA footprint in North America, alongside SGS’ existing ISTA accredited lab in Brookings, South Dakota.
SGS has over 140 years of experience in serving the global agricultural and food market, with origins as the first grain inspection company based out of Europe. In Canada, the company offers the most comprehensive spectrum of seed, soil, grain, greenhouse and feed testing services. Following best practices shared by 2,600 offices and labs globally, SGS applies world-class standards to local Canadian testing to ensure that product complies with local and international industry standards and regulations.
“The ISTA accreditation is a great complement to the existing testing, inspection and certification services that SGS offers to the wider agricultural and food market, as it delivers competitive advantage to organizations seeking quality and security in the supply chain,” says Don Slobodzian, Vice President of Agriculture and Food at SGS Canada.
