The Tesco Laboratory Approval Scheme (TLA Scheme) is an initiative developed by Tesco to ensure that its products are tested using the most appropriate, sensitive and up-to-date methods.

Food safety is our top priority and it is essential that we have complete confidence in the results that are generated by our testing activities.

It is Tesco policy that Salmonella, Listeria, Campylobacter and E. coli O157 detection testing on its products must take place using approved methods in approved laboratories. Approved laboratories will have successfully completed a practical audit to the TLA Scheme Microbiology Standard.

Laboratories wishing to take part in the Scheme may register via this website. The TLA Scheme Microbiology Standard is published on this site and access to it will be provided following registration.

Pre-requisites for joining the Scheme are:

• The laboratory carries out testing on products manufactured for Tesco.
• The laboratory carries out testing for one or more of the following:

o Salmonella spp.

o Listeria spp.

o Campylobacter spp.

o E. coli O157.

• The laboratory holds accreditation to ISO 17025

The Scheme is managed on behalf of Tesco by Norpath Scientific Services Limited and overseen by a Governance Board which includes independent experts in food microbiology and laboratory management.

The practical audit will be carried out and monitored by Campden Technology Limited who will communicate their findings to the Scheme management. The timing of the Supplementary Audit will be arranged with each individual laboratory. Registration and audit fees apply.

The approval process begins with a paperwork assessment of the methodology used to carry out pathogen testing, followed by a practical audit in the laboratory facility.

Approval must be renewed annually and this process involves a review of methodology and a repeat practical audit.

It is the responsibility of the Tesco supplier to ensure that the laboratory it uses has Tesco approval where appropriate. This will be audited as part of the Tesco Food Manufacturing Standard.

N.B. in July 2010 a version of the Tesco Manufacturing Standard 347 incorrectly specified locations other than the UK needed to be included in the Scheme. This is an error. In 2011 only UK based manufacturers and laboratories will have to meet this requirement. Any change in this requirement will be communicated as appropriate.