REFERENCE MATERIALS: WHAT ARE THEY GOOD FOR?
The Role of Matrix Reference Materials in the Development and Validation of Analytical Methods for Dietary Supplements. In 2002, the Office of Dietary Supplements established a Dietary Supplement Methods and Reference Materials Program. Stakeholders identified needs for identity reference materials, calibration standards, and matrix reference materials (MRM). Some work has begun on calibration standards, but commercial sources exist, so ODS has concentrated on MRM. An important feature of testing is the ability to verify method, instrument, and operator performance. This determination may be made by performing the method on a material that has had values for the analyte(s) of interest assigned to it through a rigorous process. Confidence in the method and the operator is achieved if certified values can be achieved. Thus, these materials are useful in evaluation of analytical methods performance and as tools in laboratory proficiency testing. In partnership with ODS, the NIST produces suites of matrix reference materials consisting of properly identified plant material, raw material extract, and one or more representative products. Joseph M Betz, PhD, Director
Use of Standard Reference Materials The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) produces several types of Standard Reference Materials (SRMs), e.g., for chemical composition or physical properties. Chemical composition materials can take the form of calibration solutions, pure materials, or matrix materials, depending on their intended use. The appropriate use of chemical composition SRMs for method validation and quality control will be discussed in this presentation.
Katherine E. Sharpless, Ph.D.
European Commission, Joint Research Centre Use of Reference Materials for Identification and Calibration in Genomics The qualitative and quantitative analysis of DNA, RNA and their fragments has become a major activity in various research and application sectors. Unfortunately, basic concepts and procedures of analytical quality assurance have been so far largely ignored during the extremely rapid developing phase of genomics. This holds also true for the systematic development and proper use of certified reference materials (CRMs) as crucial tools for providing reliable analytical results and for their internal and external control. It will be demonstrated how tailor-made CRMs composed of DNA fragments can be used for controlling biological identifications of microorganisms in food and environmental samples as well as for quality assurance of human genetic testing. Moreover, the proper calibration of real-time PCR methods for GMO quantification by specifically designed CRMs will be explained in relation with the use of corresponding matrix-matched CRMs for quality control.
Hendrik Emons
Reference Materials in Food Microbiology and Chemistry Laboratories As laboratories around the world continue standardize, it is important for laboratories to implement the use of reference materials in a predictable and consistent manner. ISO standards define types of reference materials and general uses. These standards do not, however, define specific uses. In addition, compendial methods do not consistently define the use of reference materials. The use of reference materials in food laboratories have a large impact on reported results, including food safety and nutritional considerations. The purpose of this discussion is to offer possible uses of reference materials in food laboratories, the different types available, sourcing them, and future needs.Bradley A. Stawick
Practical Use of Reference Materials in the Analytical Laboraotry Reference materials play an important role in the dietary supplements analytical laboratory. In this presentation, real-world examples of how various reference materials are used will be presented. Reference materials are utilized in method development and validation & during routine sample analysis as a holistic validation of the analytical process. A focus on practical utilization of reference materials is the focus of this session providing tools to take back to the lab for daily use. Although often misunderstood or underutilized, reference materials are foundational to a good laboratory quality system and can help provide early feedback when method problems arise. James Neal-Kababick, Director
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