The Colorado Department of Agriculture (CDA) Biochemistry Laboratory is seeking funding under FDA funding opportunity PAR-20-105, "Laboratory Flexible Funding Model (LFFM) (U19)." The Colorado Department of Agriculture is committed to working with the FDA to enhance the capacity and capabilities of state human and animal food testing laboratories to support the overall goal of an integrated food safety system. The CDA supports the goal of the Microbiology Human Food Product Testing Analytical Track 2 “to improve food testing surveillance programs through the microbiological analysis of food products”. Our Research Plan for Microbiology Analytical Track 2 establishes that the CDA Biochemistry Laboratory (CDA-BCL) meets the eligibility requirements for this funding opportunity. Furthermore, our research plan demonstrates that the CDA-BCL is competent and currently has the capability to achieve the program requirements and goals outlined in the funding opportunity including the proper laboratory facilities and equipment, organization structure, personnel, management system, food testing capabilities, and laboratory quality management system. Through funding for this analytical track, the CDA-BCL will: Conduct microbiological analyses of a minimum of 200 high-risk FDA regulated food commodity for a single commodity/hazard pair. Participate in FDA-requested exercises, surveillance and method improvement projects to support removal of contaminated food from commerce and assist regulatory agencies with investigations. Maintain competency and preparedness through proficiency testing, maintain staffing, supplies, test kits and equipment to be able to respond quickly to a contamination event involving human food.