Like many veterans, Col. Edward R. Hahn returned home from his service in WWII looking for a new career and a way to start his civilian life. In 1947, the decorated veteran launched Hahn Laboratories in Columbia, SC. In that same year, Col. Hahn became a member of the AOCS (The American Oil Chemists Society). He also became a member of the NCPA (National Cottonseed Products Association) and the lab has been listed as an official chemistry lab since its beginnings. In August 1953, the lab moved to its current location on Flora Street. With time and continued growth as a leader in the industry, the company incorporated in 1987. Hahn Laboratories initially focused its services on testing cottonseed and its byproducts; however, the company quickly expanded its services to include testing for other agricultural products.

Ed Hahn’s son, Frank, worked at the lab throughout his college years and in 1984 joined the company fulltime. He became an AOCS and NCPA member in 1985. In 1990, Frank assumed operation of Hahn Laboratories and continues to run the company today. Under Frank Hahn’s guidance Hahn Laboratories has expanded its testing services and the regions it serves. He has built the company’s reputation by providing customized services to meet the special requirements of customers throughout the world. His hands-on involvement in the company insures that Hahn Laboratories continues to distinguish itself in the service it has provided for over 70 years.