The Idaho Bureau of Laboratories (IBL) maintains strict guidelines regarding receipt and processing of samples. Some samples may be submitted by the public while others are accepted only from state agencies, district health departments, or law enforcement agencies.

As a member of the Food Emergency Response Network, IBL provides threat identification and rule-out tests to support public health and law enforcement operations. Potentially hazardous food samples, such as those related to criminal investigations, must always be collected and field screened by authorized HazMat teams prior to submission at IBL. Emergency activation of the laboratory occurs through Idaho's emergency communications system.

Before submitting a sample, it is highly recommended that you consult the Bureau's Sampling and Submission Guide. There you will find information on routine tests performed at IBL. Samples must be received in appropriate packaging for the testing process to be successful. Proper submission forms must accompany samples. If the form you need is not in the list, or if you are unsure of the form you should use, please call 208-334-2235.

Food Microbiology

• Bacterial Analysis

Food Chemistry

• Test Paper Screen for the Presence of Cyanide
• GC-MS Screen for Azide, Cyanide, and Fluoroacetate