Next steps for Age Test customers

The Embark team recently discovered that our Age Test was not performing in a way that meets our scientific standards. Customer results were not matching the accuracy levels we observed when we built and initially tested the current version of our age prediction model.

As with all of our products, we are continuously adding to our database and optimizing the model we use to estimate age. In this process, we identified a calculation error that results in less accurate age predictions than we originally calculated. Our swabbing and methylation testing procedures are sound, but we need to update the data model to meet our internal standards and our commitment to our customers.

We have paused the sale and processing of the Age Test and are dedicating significant resources to resolving this issue by collecting more samples and refining our model to improve our accuracy. Our scientists are evaluating and optimizing each aspect of the Age Test, from sample quality to probe performance to the prediction model.

In the meantime, we have removed results in the embarkvet.com dashboard for all Age Test customers and they can either 1.) elect now to wait for an update in March and receive a partial refund or 2.) request a full refund now.

We understand that Age Test results can spark a wide range of emotions for our customers, and that learning the test was not as accurate as was initially claimed may be disappointing. We share those feelings and are determined to resolve this issue and help our customers provide the best, most personalized care to their dogs.

Embark’s strength lies in its scientific leadership. We take the accuracy of our products very seriously, which is why we have quality controls in place that monitor product accuracy on an ongoing basis. We want to make it absolutely clear that this in no way impacts the accuracy of our longstanding DNA products – our Breed ID, Breed + Health, or Purebred kits.

Our DNA products are founded in decades-old genotyping technology and our scientists have spent seven years refining the prediction models in those DNA tests. Making accurate predictions with methylation data is newer territory among scientists. While we are excited to be on the forefront of that new scientific territory, that also comes with less predictability. Going forward, we are implementing additional analytical improvements and more layers of scientific review to ensure we can stand by the accuracy claims for all of our tests, including the next iteration of the Age Test.

While this challenge is not what we envisioned for the Age Test, our customers, or their dogs, we are committed to addressing this issue with transparency and a customer-centric focus rooted in Embark’s scientific integrity and commitment to the life and longevity of all dogs.