American Foulbrood (AFB) Testing

American Fouldbrood(AFB) is a notifiable disease in New Zealand and is managed by the AFB National Pest Management Agency. Testing for the presence of AFB is an overseas market access requirement (OMAR) for China, one of New Zealand’s largest markets for Mānuka Honey.  

What is American Foulbrood? 

American Foulbrood is a bacterial disease that has detrimental effects on hive health and serious financial implications if it is not closely monitored by the beekeeper. The disease affects the growth of bee brood which over time will weaken and kill the hive. The disease is passed from hive to hive by both robbing and poor beekeeping practices.

What is the turnaround time for American Foulbrood Testing? 

Results for routine testing are available the next working day and the same working day for urgent testing from receipt of sample. 

Contact Us  Read the technical note  Download the honey testing brochure

Latest Stories

Hill News August 2026 - Update from our MD, Dr Jonno Hill

As I write this, we are finishing the clean up after a complex and high-stakes piece of work which was delivered over the weekend – an upgrade to the power supply at our largest lab, located in Hamilton. This has been months in the planning, and included a full power shut down to the site, with generators used to keep essential operations running until the power was restored.
  27 Aug 2026

From the Desk of Peter Lord – CEO

It has been a busy and productive year for Hill Labs, with several important milestones that reflect our ongoing commitment to supporting customers with reliable, responsive and innovative laboratory services. One of the highlights has been the successful establishment of our raw milk testing service from June. As the dairy season builds, sample numbers are now picking up, and it is encouraging to see this new capability already supporting the sector.
  27 Aug 2026

NZIFST – Looking to the Future!

Hill Labs was pleased to attend the New Zealand Institute of Food Science and Technology (NZIFST) Conference again this year - an event that brings together a diverse group, including students, scientists, food technologists and new product developers from across the food sector.  
  27 Aug 2026

What our customers have to say

"We've always found them to be responsive in getting results back and giving advice on problems we might be facing."

Andrew Hutchinson, Technical Manager, Turners & Growers

"We strongly recommend Hill Labs as a sound testing service provider to the honey industry."

Nick Walker, Technical Manager, Egmont Honey

"Their sample registration system has made things simple and seamless - collect, scan and send!"

Mathew Bannister, Compliance Manager, First Fresh New Zealand

Accreditations

As a New Zealand accredited laboratory by International Accreditation New Zealand (IANZ), Hill Labs' commitment to quality is tantamount to our overall operating philosophy. We pride ourselves on the quality of our work.