reproducibility. To optimize the progress of working groups, all working group members receive
education on the development of SMPRs and using the guideline prior to initiating their discussions.
Working groups reconcile public comments received on draft standards and make recommendations on
standards to the stakeholder panel. These groups include global government, industry, and academia
representatives.
Expert Review Panels (ERPs):
ERPs are responsible for the careful scrutiny and systematic review of
methods and the adoption of methods as AOAC First Action
Official Methods of Analysis
. ERPs are
comprised of stakeholders whose collected expertise are balanced and are vetted by the OMB for
conflict of interest. As appointed AOAC volunteers, they apply their collective expertise and using the
standard(s) developed by the stakeholders to evaluate submitted methods. ERPs review methods
following the carefully scrutinize methods and data available in an unbiased, science-based peer review
and evaluation against approved standard method performance requirements (adopted by stakeholder
panel). ERPs receive an AOAC orientation comprised of meeting logistics and OMB guidance for
methods adopted as
Official Methods of Analysis
. Expert Review Panels (ERPs) are created to provide
stakeholders with an expert resource
to evaluate and adopt analytical solutions to identified needs and
concerns.
What is the ROI for companies to participate in the Stakeholder Panel Process?
AOAC provides a number of opportunities for companies to realize a return on investment for
participating. Companies interested in becoming more involved in the process are urged to attend the
stakeholder panel meetings and bring experts to the meetings to help bring a voice from your
company’s perspective. The Stakeholder Panel Meetings are devoted to standards development, but
they also offer unique opportunities to network with other members and potential customers.
AOAC’s highest level of membership, the Organizational Affiliate (OA), are provided additional benefits
and value. AOAC facilitates relationships between OA’s and members of scientific community, industry
and government, thought leaders in their specific fields, their customers, their international
counterparts, other AOAC Members, business leaders and quality control experts. AOAC is known for its
strong international presence. AOAC’s 15 Sections, both domestic and international, provide a network
for OA’s.
Current List of AOAC Organizational Affiliates - LINK
AOAC’s standards development process places AOAC in the lead on developing standards across the
globe. AOAC recognizes the need for harmonization of methods and the voluntary consensus standard
process provides a successful solution for companies interested in harmonization.
AOAC provides opportunities for OA Members to meet directly in small group setting with government
regulators/officials, speakers and industry thought leaders. Thought Leader Advisories have been a
pivotal turning point in working with OAs and providing one-on-one discussions with key regulators in
countries such as China and India.
AOAC offers opportunities for OA’s to come to the table with their competitors to discuss scientific
issues and leave the politics out.
