Accreditation Scope
CertificationAlso known as: Scope of Accreditation, Accredited Methods, 17025 Scope
The specific test methods, analytes, and matrices a lab is accredited to perform.
What It Means
An accreditation scope document lists exactly which test methods a laboratory has been assessed for competence by its accreditation body. For supplement testing, a scope might list HPLC methods for potency, ICP-MS for heavy metals, and USP methods for microbial limits — but NOT include pesticide residues or botanical identity testing. A lab may perform tests outside its accredited scope, but those results do not carry the weight of accredited work. Scope documents are published by accreditation bodies (A2LA, ANAB, SCC) in searchable online directories. Checking the scope is the single most important step a buyer can take when evaluating a testing lab — the difference between 'ISO 17025 accredited' and 'ISO 17025 accredited for the tests you need' is the difference between false confidence and real assurance.
What It Is Not
Accreditation scope is NOT lab-wide. A lab can be ISO 17025 accredited and still perform most of its supplement testing work outside the accredited scope. 'ISO 17025 accredited lab' does not mean 'all tests from this lab are accredited.' Always request the scope document and check whether your specific tests are listed. Accreditation bodies like A2LA publish detailed scope schedules listing specific methods, products, and matrices.
Evidence and References
- directoryA2LA Accredited Organization Search
- directoryANAB Accredited Organization Search
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