The CCQM and comparability and traceability in food analysis

Abstract

Comparability of the results of food analysis is essential for reliable and uniform interpretation of legal requirements on food safety, for avoiding false tests, fostering fair trade, an equal economic playing field and taking away non-tariff barriers to trade. Global comparability can only be achieved through traceability to internationally agreed common and long-term stable references, being the International System of Units (SI). The Comité International des Poids et Mesures’ Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA), signed and operating under the intergovernmental treaty of the Metre Convention, is the basis for international recognition and acceptance. The Comité Consultatif pour la Quantité de Matière métrologie en chimie (CCQM) is the committee under the CIPM organizing the technical scientific work establishing worldwide traceability and comparability underpinning the CIPM MRA. The CCQM cooperates with all intergovernmental and international organizations concerned.