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THE BENEFITS OF PARTICIPATING IN SQT
When a laboratory uses SQT, comparison of results with a large cross section of other laboratories performing the same analyses on the same samples promotes the achievement and maintenance of peak levels of laboratory accuracy. Regular analysis of check samples will help maintain quality control.

Additionally, participation in SQT will provide the infrastructure and information necessary to create a valuable quality assurance scheme to guarantee analytical results and increase the trust in soybeans with enhanced quality traits.

Become one of the elite and participate in SQT today!

The Analytical Standards Program (ASP) determines laboratory performance in terms of accuracy and bias. Four samples of soybeans with compositionally enhance traits (protein, oil, fatty acid composition) are delivered four times a year for analysis. You have two months to complete the analysis and submit your results online. Coded reports are provided for you to compare your data with other participants.

Programs Offered:

  • Wet Chemistry (Soybean) Proficiency Program
    Required tests: Moisture, nitrogen, oil, & fatty acids

  • NIR (Soybean)  Proficiency Program
    Required tests: Moisture, nitrogen, oil, & crude fiber

  • NIR (Soybean meal)  Proficiency Program
    Required tests: Moisture, nitrogen, oil, & crude fiber

The Analytical Standards program is free courtesy of the United Soybean Board.

Who should participate?
See the SQT Brochure

  • Seed companies
  • Referee and private laboratories
  • End-user laboratories
  • Elevator and crop handling facilities
How does SQT operate?
In order to maintain quality and accuracy, all laboratories will be encouraged to participate in a specially tailored proficiency program. The program will determine laboratory performance in terms of accuracy and bias. Samples used in the program will be stored and later released as calibration or quality control standards. Other reference materials will be made available from the AOCS Laboratory Proficiency and Reference Samples Programs.

How is performance judged?
Test results are reported to AOCS according to a predetermined schedule. Results are entered into a database and analyzed using internationally approved statistical guidelines. A confidential code is issued to each participant upon enrollment. Using only these codes, AOCS prepares statistical reports, which allow each analyst to compare his/her data with that from other participants.


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