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In a significant move to bolster food safety measures in the state, PM Modi inaugurated the cutting-edge Microbiology Laboratory and 17 Food Safety on Wheels (FSWs) through a virtual ceremony on Sunday. The newly established facilities are located at the State Public Health Laboratory, Assam, in Bamunimaidam, Guwahati, falling under the purview of the Commissionerate of Food Safety, Department of Health Family Welfare.
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Dignitaries Attend the Virtual Event
The event saw the participation of key dignitaries, including Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare and Chemicals and Fertilisers Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Prof S.P Baghal, Union Minister of State, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, and Dr. Bharati Pravin Pawar, Union Minister of State, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and Ministry of Tribal Affairs from Rajkot.
Assam Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Keshab Mahanta, Member of Parliament Guwahati Queen Oja, and other distinguished guests were present at the State Public Health Laboratory, Assam.
Microbiology Lab Boosts Food Safety Standards
The newly established Microbiology Laboratory, costing Rs 4.64 crore, is a state-of-the-art facility. Funded through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) and the state of Assam, this laboratory is the only FSSAI notified and NABL accredited facility in the state.
This sophisticated lab is equipped to analyze samples of various food articles, detect harmful pathogens, and ensure compliance with food safety standards, thus preventing foodborne illnesses. It will play a crucial role in analyzing microbiological parameters in items such as milk and milk products, water, food grains, fruits, and vegetables, contributing to the implementation of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
Food Safety on Wheels Initiative
Under the same MoU, 17 Food Safety on Wheels (FSWs) were procured at a cost of Rs 8.46 crore from funds received from FSSAI. These mobile food testing laboratories will be instrumental in carrying out surveillance, awareness, and training on FS across the state.
The FSWs will conduct analyses on diverse food items, including milk and milk products, water, fruits and beverages, edible oils, among others. This initiative aims to extend the reach of FS measures to even the remote areas of Assam, ensuring the availability of safe and wholesome food for all citizens.
The combined efforts of the Microbiology Laboratory and Food Safety on Wheels mark a significant stride towards enhancing FS standards in Assam, aligning with the national goal of providing safe and nutritious food to every citizen.
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