Shillong, March 23: Meghalaya has taken a significant step towards strengthening its food and water safety infrastructure with the launch of two advanced analytical instruments at the State Food Testing Laboratory in Pasteur Hills, Lawmali. The newly introduced Automated Water Analyser and Gas Chromatograph with Flame Ionization Detector (GC-FID) were unveiled during the laboratory’s second technical session held on Monday.
Health and Family Welfare Minister Wailadmiki Shylla attended the programme as chief guest and formally launched the equipment. Additional Chief Secretary Dr. Sampath Kumar and East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner Rosetta M. Kurbah were also present as guest of honour and special guest respectively.
Officials said the Automated Water Analyser will enable faster and more comprehensive testing of water quality, addressing the growing need for safe drinking water across the state. Meanwhile, the GC-FID will enhance the laboratory’s capability to detect organic compounds, including fatty acid composition, flavour profiling and alcohol content, ensuring stricter quality control of food products.
The technical session, themed “Strengthening Food Safety Ecosystem through Science & Awareness,” brought together policymakers, scientists, food safety officers and stakeholders to discuss the role of innovation and public awareness in ensuring food safety.
The event underscored the State Food Testing Laboratory’s commitment to adopting scientific advancements to maintain high standards of food and water safety for the people of Meghalaya.
