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. 

Read the technical note  Speak to the team to learn more 

Latest Stories

Staff Profile: Ester Woollaston - Championing Food Safety and Team Success

With nearly 10 years of experience, Section Manager for Water Microbiology, Ester Woollaston is passionate about public health and leads a busy lab. Learn more about Ester and her time at Hill Labs.
  30 Jun 2025

Expanding Our Dairy and Apiculture Services Through FSQSNZ Acquisition

Following our recent acquisitions of Food and Health Standards (FHS) and Auditing Solutions (AS), we’re excited to announce the next step in our growth journey: the acquisition of Food Safety Quality Solutions NZ (FSQSNZ Limited). This move, part of our joint venture with Sam Brooks, brings a trusted MPI-recognised agency into our fold, with over five years of combined experience in food safety and compliance. 
  24 Jun 2025

Hill Labs at Fieldays – A Look Through the Photo Album

The calendar is marked, and planning is well underway for the Southern Hemisphere’s largest agricultural event – Fieldays. This year marks Hill Labs' 27th year exhibiting at the event, a milestone that gives us a wonderful opportunity to flick through the archives and reflect on our journey and the various looks we've sported over the years.
  20 May 2025

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.