KHON KAEN – The Microbiology Laboratory at Khon Kaen University’s Faculty of Science has achieved a significant milestone by earning ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accreditation, elevating its food and water testing capabilities to international standards.

The certification was granted by the Bureau of Laboratory Quality Standards, part of the Department of Medical Sciences under the Ministry of Public Health. This official recognition (registration number 1421/69) confirms the laboratory’s technical competence and ability to produce precise and reliable test results.

The scope of the accreditation covers critical areas of food and water testing essential for consumer safety and the national economy. The certified testing services include:

• Comprehensive Water Quality Testing: Analysis of drinking water, tap water, groundwater, natural source water, and ice.
• In-depth Food Product Testing: Analysis of a wide range of food categories (excluding dairy products), such as fresh and processed meat, seafood, fresh produce, ready-to-eat meals, and condiments.
• Advanced Microbiological Analysis: Detection of pathogenic microorganisms like Escherichia coli and Total Coliforms, as well as Aerobic Plate Counts, using globally recognized methods such as the Standard Method (APHA, AWWA, WEF) and the FDA’s Bacteriological Analytical Manual (BAM).

The laboratory’s quality management system is supported by a team of highly qualified personnel. Three experts have been named as Approved Signatories for test reports: Assistant Professor Dr. Polsan Mahakhan, Associate Professor Dr. Viyada Mongkolthanaruk, and Ms. Phenphak Khamkaew, ensuring the highest level of academic credibility.

The certification is valid from February 27, 2026, to February 26, 2030. This achievement not only marks a success for Khon Kaen University but also provides local food industry entrepreneurs with access to internationally recognized analytical services, thereby enhancing the competitiveness of the Thai food industry in the global market.