Terms of testing

1. Scope of engagement

We perform the tests set out in the agreed protocol on the samples submitted. A report describes those samples as received. It is not a statement about other units of the same product, about future production, or about the suitability of the product for sale.

2. Samples

Samples must arrive with a completed submission form identifying product, batch and date of manufacture. Consignments arriving without an agreed protocol are placed into appropriate storage and held; testing does not begin until the protocol is confirmed in writing.

Condition on receipt is recorded. Where a consignment arrives outside its specified temperature range we will report the deviation and ask for a decision before proceeding. Retained samples are held for three months after report issue and are then disposed of.

3. Reports

Reports are issued to the commissioning client only. They may be reproduced in full, and may not be reproduced in part without our written agreement, because a partial extract of a shelf-life report is routinely misleading.

Results outside our accredited schedule are identified as such on the result line. Opinions and interpretations, where given, are marked as opinion.

4. What a report is not

We do not set date codes, approve products, certify processes or endorse materials. The declared shelf life of a food product is determined by the food business operator, who holds the process knowledge and the legal responsibility under Regulation (EC) 178/2002 as retained in UK law.

5. Confidentiality

Study information is treated as confidential and is not disclosed to third parties except where you direct it in writing, where a subcontractor is engaged with your prior written agreement, or where disclosure is required by law. Where the law compels disclosure we will notify you unless prohibited from doing so.

6. Impartiality

We decline work where a conflict of interest would arise, including any study in which we would assess material supplied by a related party. We do not accept protocols written to produce a predetermined result.

7. Liability

Our liability in connection with any study is limited to the fees paid for that study, except in respect of death or personal injury caused by negligence, or fraud, where liability is not limited. We are not liable for loss of profit, product recall costs or consequential loss.

8. Payment and cancellation

Invoices are payable within 30 days of issue. A study cancelled after samples have entered storage is charged for chamber occupancy and work completed to the date of cancellation.

9. Governing law

These terms are governed by the law of England and Wales, and the courts of England and Wales have exclusive jurisdiction.

Version 4.2, June 2026.