The divisions' aim is to improve food safety and quality through research and development of analytical methods. Research is conducted on the effects of desirable and undesirable compounds in food and feed, with an emphasis on collecting data on both nutrients and pollutants in Icelandic food products. This allows Icelandic food producers and exporters to evaluate the quality of Icelandic food products and to maintain their high standards and competitiveness on a global scale. The data can also be used as risk assessments for marketing purposes.

Research into the composition of ingredients and final products in food and feed production is conducted as well as research on changes in the quality and safety of food during production and storage e.g. nutritional value, formation or origination of undesirable substances.

The division handles monitoring of undesirable compounds in seafood products and contaminants in marine biota in Icelandic waters; a project done in collaboration with the ministry of environment to fulfill its obligation to OSPAR and AMAP.

The specialists who work within the division have extensive knowledge in: research and monitoring of inorganic trace elements (e.g. heavy metals such as mercury, led and cadmium) and organic trace elements (pesticides, PCB's, dioxin, bromine, etc...), risk assessment and presentation.