Sample Submission - Partner with Us

We are committed to your success

Welcome Industry Partners

We are delighted you’ve chosen to collaborate with the NMSU Food Safety Laboratory. Navigating food safety testing and regulatory requirements can be complex, and our mission is to serve as your trusted, accessible resource at every step.

This portal is designed to make our partnership as seamless as possible, offering a central hub with everything you need to get started—from clear submission instructions and downloadable forms to our fee schedule and answers to frequently asked questions.

We are committed to your success and look forward to supporting you with the university-backed expertise you need to thrive.

How to Submit a Sample: A 4-Step Guide

Follow these steps to ensure your sample is processed efficiently and accurately.

Step 1: Download & Complete the Submission Form

Begin by downloading our Universal Sample Submission Form. This form captures important information about your sample, the testing services requested, and your contact details.

Please complete all fields thoroughly, including product type, batch/lot number, and any special handling instructions.
Incomplete or missing information may delay testing.
If you are uncertain about which tests to request, feel free to contact our laboratory team for guidance before submission.

Step 2: Collect Your Sample Aseptically

Accurate test results depend on proper sampling. To minimize contamination:

Use a sterile, sealed container that is appropriate for the type of product you are submitting.
Avoid contact with hands, surfaces, or non-sterile utensils during collection.
For bulk products, take a representative sample that reflects the lot as a whole.
If unsure of the best way to collect or package your product, contact us—we are happy to provide sampling recommendations tailored to your product.

Step 3: Submit Payment via NMSU eMarket

We have streamlined payment through the secure NMSU eMarket portal.

Select the tests you require.
Complete the secure online payment process.
Save or print your payment receipt. This must be included with your sample.

Go to NMSU eMarket Payment Portal (COMING SOON)

NMSU eMarket

Step 4: Deliver Your Sample

Submit your sample(s), completed submission form, and a copy of your payment receipt using one of the following methods:

Local Drop-off: Deliver samples directly to our laboratory during receiving hours:
1. Monday – Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Shipping: If you are unable to deliver samples in person:
1. Ship samples overnight to ensure timely arrival.
2. Use a properly insulated container with sufficient ice packs to maintain temperature.
3. Clearly label the package “Perishable – Keep Refrigerated.”
4. Avoid shipping samples on Fridays or before holidays to prevent weekend storage in transit.

Forms & Fee Schedule

Our goal is to make working with the NMSU Food Safety Laboratory as straightforward as possible. Below you will find direct access to required forms, as well as a list of commonly requested tests with standard turnaround times.

Downloadable Forms

All samples must be accompanied by a completed submission form. Please download the appropriate form, fill it out, and include it with your shipment or drop-off.

Sample Submission Form

Process Review Information Form

Turnaround Times

The table below outlines our most common testing services. Turnaround times are based on standard conditions and begin on the day samples are received by the laboratory. Pricing is available through the NMSU eMarket Payment Portal and is subject to change.

Service	Standard Turnaround Time*
Foodborne Pathogen Detection
Salmonella	2–5 Business Days
Listeria monocytogenes	2–5 Business Days
E. coli O157:H7	2–5 Business Days
Shiga toxin-producing E. coli serogroups	2–5 Business Days
Indicator and Spoilage Organisms
Coliform & Generic E. coli	1–2 Business Days
Yeast & Mold	3–5 Business Days
Aerobic & Anaerobic plate count	2–3 Business Days
Enterobacteriaceae	1–2 Business Days
Other Tests
pH Determination	1–2 Business Days
Water Activity (a_W)	1–2 Business Days

*Standard turnaround time begins the day the sample is received by the lab. Presumptive positive pathogen results require additional time for confirmatory culture and typing.

For specialized projects such as Shelf-Life Studies, Challenge Studies, or Validation work, or for a formal quote on large-scale submissions, please contact us directly. Our team will provide a customized proposal based on your needs.