ISTA Authorized Seed Sampler Web Site

        No matter how accurately an analysis is made, it can show only the quality of the sample submitted.       

The principles, methods and procedures that are laid out for sampling are those set out in the International Seed Testing Association (ISTA) Rules for Seed Testing, Association of American Seed Control Officials (AASCO) Handbook for Seed Inspectors and the Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA) Rules for Testing Seed. The principles apply equally to domestic and export sampling.

The sampler plays a critical role in sampling seed lots for testing. The accuracy of the information submitted and the sampling performed are vital to the integrity of any seed analysis certificate issued.

Seed is sampled for the purposes of issuance of seed analysis certificates (domestic or international), quality control, Canadian grading or other official purposes. It is important that the sample be taken in accordance with approved methods and techniques to ensure that it is representative of the entire seed lot.