(a) Samples must be representative of the product tested and provided in sufficient quantity for the analyses requested.

(b) Each sample must be identified with the following information:

(1) Product type (specific description);

(2) Lot number or production date;

(3) Analyses desired;

(4) Date/time collected;

(5) Storage conditions prior to shipping;

(6) Name of applicant;

(7) Name of sampler;

(8) Any other information which is required by the specific program under which analysis or test is performed.

(a) Samples must be submitted to the laboratory in a condition (including temperature) that does not compromise the quality and validity of analytical results.

(b) All samples must be submitted in sealed, leakproof containers.

(c) Containers for perishable refrigerated samples should contain ice or ice packs to maintain temperatures of 0° to 5 °C, unless a different temperature is required for the sample to be tested.

(d) Containers for frozen samples should contain dry ice or other effective methods of maintaining samples in a frozen state.

(e) The applicant is responsible for providing shipping containers and paying shipping costs for fee basis tests.

(f) A courier charge may apply for the shipment of some samples.

Laboratory personnel shall protect each sample from manipulation, substitution, and improper or careless handling which would deprive the sample of its representative character from the time of receipt in the laboratory until the analysis is completed and the sample has been discarded.

(a) Excess samples not used in analyses will be placed in proper storage for a maximum period of 30 days after reporting results of tests.

(b) Any sample of a processed commodity that has been used for a laboratory service may be returned to the applicant at his or her request and expense; otherwise, it shall be destroyed or disposed of to a charitable institution.