Navigating the UKAS Accreditation Process for Detecting Norovirus and Hepatitis A Virus in Fresh and Frozen Produce: a Case Study

Abstract

Given the urgent requirement for more laboratories to develop proficiency in detecting foodborne viruses, this case study charts the path to accreditation, demystifying the process of validating a method for detecting norovirus and hepatitis A virus in fresh produce. Securing accreditation is crucial to ensuring dependable and precise food analysis, particularly relevant for products frequently consumed raw, which are at risk of contamination by foodborne viruses. The study provides an in-depth look at the stringent procedures integral to achieving precision and dependability in results, underscoring the pivotal role of competency checks involving artificial contamination of samples. The case study also navigates the integral role of both external and internal quality assurance processes in affirming the consistency and accuracy of laboratory testing methods. The findings of this case study are transformative, amplifying confidence in laboratory results and potentially catalysing improvements in public health by ensuring accurate virus detection and identification in food samples. Furthermore, the accreditation process, as detailed in this case study, could pioneer a path for other laboratories, fostering best practices in virus detection and identification.