This document specifies a method for detection of HAV and norovirus genogroups I (GI) and II (GII), from test samples of foodstuffs (soft fruit, leaf, stem and bulb vegetables, bottled water, BMS) or food surfaces. Following liberation of viruses from the test sample, viral RNA is then extracted by lysis with guanidine thiocyanate and adsorption on silica. Target sequences within the viral RNA are amplified and detected by real-time RT-PCR. This method is not validated for detection of the target viruses in other foodstuffs (including multicomponent foodstuffs), or any other matrices, nor for the detection of other viruses in foodstuffs, food surfaces or other matrices.