3-in-1 and 4-in-1 Swab Testing

One swab, multiple tests

Environmental swabbing is a crucial microbiological process used to test food preparation surfaces, equipment, and utensils for the presence of pathogens. At Hill Labs, we continually adapt and expand our services to meet the growing demand for sustainable solutions.

Our latest innovation helps clients streamline their environmental monitoring programs by utilising both Tempo and PCR technology to test up to four organisms, using just one swab. This advancement not only saves time and effort but also reduces the use of single-use plastics, supporting both operational efficiency and environmental sustainability.

Our 3-in-1 and 4-in-1 Swab Testing:

  • simplifies sampling
  • increases efficiency 
  • reduces waste
  • is extensively validated

The 3-in-1 includes: Enterobacteriaceae enumeration, Salmonella detection and Cronobacter detection.

The 4-in-1 includes: Enterobacteriaceae enumeration, Listeria species detection, L. monocytogenes detection and Salmonella detection.

Read more about our multiswab testing here.

Latest Stories

Remembering Ian Graves

It is with great sadness that we share the news of Ian Graves' passing, as the result of an accident while surfing at his beloved Whale Bay, Raglan. Ian dedicated 19 years to Hill Labs, making a lasting contribution not only to the field of Air Quality testing, but also to the many people who had the privilege of working alongside him. He was a respected colleague, a memorable character, and a valued friend whose presence left a positive mark on our workplace.  
  17 Aug 2026

Pasture and Silage Quality Testing: Turning Grass into Better Decisions

For many New Zealand farmers, pasture is the largest component of the feed budget. Measuring pasture and silage quality is key to getting the most out of home-grown feed. While a paddock may look green and lush, its nutritional value can vary considerably depending on season, pasture species, maturity and soil conditions. Pasture and silage quality testing provides farmers with data on what animals are actually eating, rather than relying on visual assessment alone.
  17 Aug 2026

Erin McIlmurray Appointed Waikato Ballance Farm Environment Awards Chair

Congratulations to Erin McIlmurray, our Market Sector Manager - Agriculture, who has recently been appointed Chair of the Waikato Ballance Farm Environment Awards (BFEA). Reflecting on her new role, Erin says one of the most rewarding parts of being involved with the Awards is hearing the stories behind successful farming and growing operations.
  17 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.