SAI to set up Mobile Food Testing Laboratory units across country

FSSAI to set up Mobile Food Testing Laboratory units across country

New Delhi, May 5 (KNN) The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India wants to set up Mobile Food Testing Laboratory (MFTL) units throughout the country.

These MFTLs will be fully functional, equipped with all basic facilities and the required quick testing instruments and rapid diagnostic kits for detection of adulteration in various food samples particularly, Milk and Milk products, Edible Fats and oils, Water, Spices etc.

At least one Laboratory will be set up in each State/UT on turnkey basis.

The Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 was enacted in 2006 in order to consolidate all the laws relating to food and to establish the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) for laying down science-based standards for articles of food and for regulating their manufacture, storage, distribution, sale and import, for ensuring availability of safe and wholesome food for human consumption in the Country.

The Authority has rolled out a Central Sector Scheme for “Strengthening of the Food Testing System in the country including provision for Mobile Food Testing Labs” with the approval of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India.

The scheme envisages establishment of Mobile Food Testing Laboratory (MFTL) units throughout the country, at least one in each State/UT.

In this context, FSSAI has invited bids for “Setting up of Mobile Food Testing Laboratory by the FSSAI”.

The main aim of launching the mobile food testing lab is to check adulteration in milk and related products, ghee, spices, etc. Besides, experts will also make people aware about how to differentiate original food items from adulterants.