Tayside Scientific Services

We hold appointments as Agricultural Analysts under the Agricultural Act 1970.

Analysis includes the determination of undesirables (such as heavy metals and mycotoxins), additives (such as trace elements and vitamins) and proximate levels (such as protein and crude fibre). We can also interpret the results in accordance with the appropriate legislation and provide opinions where necessary.

Typical suites of analysis to request are provided under the 'Contact Us' tab.

A no obligation quote, may be requested, by use of our Customer Enquiry Form.

We carry out analysis for the determination of nitrogen dioxide in Diffusion Tube Samplers.

A no obligation quote, may be requested, by use of our Customer Enquiry Form.

Chemical Analysis:
Chemical analysis includes the determination of undesirable substances (such as heavy metals and mycotoxins), nutritional analysis, preservative levels and alcohol content. We also check for the presence of allergenic ingredients (such as peanut, gluten, milk and sulphites), check that food is free from spoilage (including fat rancidity and protein breakdown) and check the authenticity of meat and fish species using PCR techniques.

Microbiological Examination:
Microbiological examinations include the detection and identification of indicator and pathogenic micro-organisms (pathogens) in ready to eat foods from retail sale, foods taken during the manufacturing process and raw ingredients. We can interpret results of microbiological examination against the relevant Food Hygiene legislation and/or appropriate guidance.

Typical suites of analysis to request are provided under the 'Contact Us' tab.

A no obligation quote, may be requested, by use of our Customer Enquiry Form.

With extensive experience in the microbiology of water, TSS offers microbiological water testing for a wide range of water types :

• Public and private water supplies.
• Bottled water, spring water and natural mineral water.
• Sea water, river water and lochs – checking quality and for the presence of pollution.
• Jacuzzis and spas.
• Air conditioning systems, showers and water tanks – ensuring adequate disinfection and monitoring for legionella bacteria.
• Hot and cold water systems for the detection and enumeration of legionella bacteria by culture.

We can also interpret the results in accordance with the appropriate legislation and provide opinions where necessary.

Typical suites of analysis to request are provided under the 'Contact Us' tab.

A no obligation quote, may be requested, by use of our Customer Enquiry Form.

Can I bring my samples to the laboratory for testing?
Yes – please make an enquiry in the first instance using our customer enquiry form. We shall, in the first instance, require additional details in order to add you to our customer database. Once an agreement has been made we shall issue you with a contract number. Please contact the laboratory, quoting the contract number, to arrange a suitable time for the delivery of the samples.

How much will it cost to have my samples tested?
The price shall be issued after receipt of an enquiry using our customer enquiry form. This shall be a competitive price based on the extent of the analysis required, the number of samples being provided and the cost of any additional materials that may be required. The cost shall be incorporated into the contract drawn up. 

How shall I pay for the analysis or examination?
An invoice shall be issued to the address provided when the initial contact was made. Any changes to the details provided should be communicated to the laboratory.

I have an issue with food I purchased. Should I bring it to the laboratory?
No - all members of the public who have a complaint with purchased food should contact the Environmental Health department of their local authority in the first instance. The initial contact should always be made with the Environmental Health department in case the product may require a product recall from the market, or require referral to the local authority responsible for the location where the food has been produced.

I have an issue with my water supply. Should I bring it to the laboratory?
No – all members of the public who have a complaint with their mains water supply should contact Scottish Water in the first instance. Their contact details are here. Those with complaints regarding a private water supply should contact the Environmental Health department of their local authority in the first instance.

Can I use my own bottle to sample water for submission to the laboratory?
No. Please contact the laboratory to arrange for uplift of sterile bottles that we shall supply. After sampling, samples for potability (drinking water) testing should be kept cold (2 - 6 degrees Celsius) and be transported to the laboratory within 6 hours. Samples for legionella testing do not require to be kept cold, however, they should be kept out of direct sunlight and be transported to the laboratory without delay.

My test report mentions a ‘certain policy’ has been applied. What is this?
Please see details of the policies we apply under the 'Policies' tab.

I have another query not mentioned above. How can I make contact?
Please contact us using the details given under the 'Contact Us' tab.

• Decision Rule Policy
• Deviating Samples Procedure
• Management System Policy and Objectives
• Procedure for the Estimation of Uncertainty of Measurement using LIMS Data (based on NORDTEST TR537 and Iso 11352:2012
• Procedures for the Disposal of Test Items
• Sample Submission Form
• Terms and Conditions
• Complaints and Suggestions Procedure

• Association of Public Analysts
• The Royal Society of Chemistry
• The Food Standards Agency
• Health and Safety Executive (HSE)
• Trading Standards Institute
• Food Standards Scotland

Please make all enquiries for testing using our Customer Enquiry Form. A list of commonly requested suites of testing is provided here.

Our contact details are:-

6 James Lindsay Place
Dundee Technopole
Dundee DD1 5JJ

Email: scientific.services@dundeecity.gov.uk
Telephone: 01382 307170