Objective To develop a bacteria-containing cotton swab which is applied to the proficiency testing for coliform detection on sterilized tableware.Methods The positive sample contained both target bacteria and interfering bacteria， and the negative sample only contained interference bacteria. 10 bottles of negative and positive samples were selected randomly. The homogeneity tests were carried out in accordance with GB 14934—2016 Appendix B （Fermentation methed）. The samples were also stored for 120 d at -20 ℃ and 4 ℃， and 20-60 d at 25 ℃， 36 ℃ and 42 ℃respectively to monitor samples’ storage and transportation stability. Uniformity and stability testing results should be consistent with specific values. Three samples were delivered to each laboratory， and minimum of 1 positive sample was issued， the rest were randomly issued. In order to prevent data fabrication， sample numbers were randomly generated， and proficiency tests periods were shortened.Results The samples can meet the requirements of proficiency testing in terms of uniformity， storage stability and transportation stability. Fifty （91%） laboratories were qualified. Five （9%） laboratories were unqualified.Conclusion The proficiency test samples for the coliform detection on sterilized tableware can meet the requirements of proficiency testing. This proficiency test can truly reflect the testing environment and testing capability of the participating labortory.