The U.S. Pharmacopeia, a nonprofit organization that sets standards for over-the-counter and prescription drugs, supplements and other health products, will perform the tests in its Shanghai laboratory, the trade group said Saturday in a statement released by PR Newswire.

``By testing raw materials in China, we’re adding another layer of consumer protection to a process that has delivered good health products to Americans for generations,’’ said David Seckman, executive director and chief executive officer of Natural Products, in a statement.

Chinese companies which agree to have their products examined will build reputations as reliable suppliers and gain access to new customers, the group said.

China’s government shut down the Taixing Glycerine Factory, accused of selling an ingredient used in cold medicine that killed at least 100 people in Panama, and --uzhou Anying Biotechnology Development Co. and Binzhou Futian Biotechnology Co. which exported a tainted product used in pet food.

Other Chinese companies allegedly exported toys coated with lead paint, toothpaste containing banned chemicals and drug-contaminated seafood.