The central government has taken a significant step towards promoting organic products in the country by focusing on the development and strengthening of cooperative societies. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued directions to all food testing laboratories in this regard. These directions were issued on 16th June, 2023.
To ensure the authenticity and credibility of these organic products, reliable testing becomes crucial. Hence, all food testing laboratories must optimize their facilities and procedures to efficiently and accurately handle organic testing.
FSSAI has issued specific directives to all FSSAI Notified laboratories to align with this initiative. The following key measures have been outlined for the laboratories:
- Review and Enhance Capabilities: All food testing laboratories are directed to review their current capabilities and take the necessary steps to enhance the infrastructure and scope of testing for organic products. This will involve upgrading equipment, improving testing methodologies, and adopting advanced techniques to ensure accurate results.
- Recognition Application: Laboratories are instructed to make an application to the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) for recognition as a testing facility for organic products. This recognition will validate the laboratory’s competence in conducting reliable organic testing.
- Participation in Proficiency Testing: Laboratories are further encouraged to apply to the National Referral Laboratory of APEDA for participation in proficiency testing. This step is a prerequisite to qualify for pre-export testing of organic products. By participating in proficiency testing, laboratories can demonstrate their proficiency and adherence to stringent quality standards.
