Department of Agriculture

Supporting Arkansas farmers and ranchers while ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of Arkansas, the nation, and across the globe

Chemistry Laboratory

The chemistry laboratory ensures the quality of agricultural products sold in Arkansas. The lab receives representative samples of feed, fertilizer, pesticide, and limestone submitted by inspectors stationed throughout the state. These products are analyzed by the lab and results are reported back to the regulatory sections for comparison to label guarantees. The lab assists regulatory sections during investigations of product contamination by providing analysis and sampling guidance. Arkansas farmers and consumers benefit greatly from having agriculture products that are held to a high standard of label compliance.

Lab accuracy is validated through membership in the following proficiency testing programs: Association of American Pesticide Control Officials (AAPCO), Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), Magruder Check Sample, Wisconsin Pesticide Residue Check Sample Program, the Kentucky Hemp Proficiency Testing Program, and the Collaborative Testing Services Hemp Proficiency Testing Program. Regulatory analyses are performed in accordance with Association of Official Agricultural Chemists (AOAC) guidelines.