Energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy and inductively coupled plasma emission spectrometry were evaluated as methods for routine multielement analysis of biological material. Standard samples included Standard Reference Materials (National Bureau of Standards), compounded mixtures, and supplements that provided a wide range of elemental concentrations for analysis. Elements included in this study were Zn, Pb, Ni, Mn, Fe, Mg, Cu, Ca, As, Se, Br, Rb, and Sr. Standards were analyzed as unknowns by participating laboratories. The two methods were evaluated for sensitivity, precision, and accuracy, and the results compared to those obtained for atomic absorption spectrometric analysis of identical standard unknowns. Both methods compared favorably and both were determined to be highly reliable for such an application. Advantages and disadvantages of each method are compared and discussed.