Submit Samples

Process Guide

Before Sending Samples

Quick overview

  • Set Up a Call

    Before sending samples, make sure that you jump in a call with one of our representatives. They will assist with creating a sampling plan that fit your operation.

  • Collect Sample

    Collect the sample according to the sampling plan. We highly recommend to collect samples on the same day as you are sending it. Scroll below for more instructions about taking samples.

  • Fill in Sample Submission Form

    Download and fill in the Sample Submission Form. Then submit the Sample Submission Form here. Ensure to have the Courier and Tracking ID/URL to submit the form correctly. Incorrect submission may delay the service

Process Guide

When Sending Samples

More details for submitting samples

  • Sample Collection

    It is highly recommended to collect samples on the same day as shipping. If samples are collected before shipping, store them refrigerated. The microbiome composition of a sample will change more as the time between sample collection and lab processing increases.

  • Collecting Water Samples (source, nutrient, irrigation)

    Collect about a cup of water (250 ml) in a clean or sterile plastic container or bottle.

    We offer a water sampling kit that allows you to filter water and send us the filter instead of water samples. The advantage of our water filtration kit is that filtered samples are relatively stable at room temperature and warmer. Shipping filtered samples alone (without roots or plant tissue samples) does not require frozen ice packs. Although in hotter weather in the summer, we do recommend sending filtered samples with ice packs.

  • Collecting Swab Samples

    Swab the surface of your target area, and place the swab in the collection tube.

    Shipping swabs does not require ice packs.

  • Labelling Samples

    Create a Sample ID (max. 30 characters) for each sample and label the bag or attach it to the outside of the bag of each sample. Label each sample with a Sample ID with a permanent, water-resistant marker or label.

  • Fill in Sample Submission Form

    Fill in the Sample Submission Form to be included with the samples and include any information important to handling the samples.

    To request the type of tests we offer, see our Service page. If there is a certain test that you do not see on our website, let us know to see if we can provide accommodations.

    Note: that the information we collect on farms is kept confidential. Any metadata collected and sequencing data generated are used to improve our in-house pathogen database and to help better serve growers.

  • Metadata

    If you are requesting long-term monitoring or surveillance of the microbiome and pathogens, you will need to fill out a separate metadata sheet. Please get in touch with us regarding your interest and we will provide you with the form.

  • Package the Samples

    Place collected samples in an insulated box (e.g. styrofoam, cooler) with several frozen ice packs. Include the Sample Submission Form and any other papers in a plastic bag to prevent it from getting wet.

    Samples can either be sent in via a courier or dropped off at our office. Submitters are responsible for shipping.

  • Submit the Sample Submission Form online

    Submit the Sample Submission Form spreadsheet online here. Make sure to add the Courier and Tracking ID/URL to ensure your samples are processed in a timely manner.

  • Send in Samples

    It is highly recommended to send samples via a courier from Monday-Wednesday (unless it’s a holiday). Ship samples on Thursday only by overnight courier. Do not ship samples on Friday and on the weekend to avoid having them in transition. Keep samples refrigerated if they cannot be sent immediately.

    Alternatively, you can drop off samples at the address below. It is recommended to send or drop off samples on the same day as it is collected. Please contact us or email us at [email protected] and wait for confirmation from a team member before BEFORE dropping off samples. This way we can ensure someone is available to receive your samples.

    Send samples to:
    Metagenom Bio Life Science
    550 Parkside Drive, Unit A9
    Waterloo, ON
    N2L 5V4
    Canada

  • Precautions

    Metagenom Bio Life Science can reject handling and processing samples if they are a health risk or are compromised.

    Questions? [email protected]

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