Laboratory Setup
A food testing laboratory is a critical and integral part of the food industry to maintain a safe supply chain and quality food. Contaminants in the form of pesticides, substitutions for cheaper ingredients and food-borne illnesses are major food safety problems.
There have been a numerous product recalls due to various reasons such as unsafe food, improper packaging, shelf life not met, physical contaminant, and microbial growth, etc .
It is crucial that quality checks and analysis are implemented in the food production process to protect the public. Without correctly following food safety procedures consumer health and the reputation of your company is at risk.
Our consultancy will provide you with some insight into what is needed while setting up your own laboratory.
1) SPACE & LOCATION
The space for your laboratory is dependent on the testing that will be undertaken. The more tests performed; the more floor space needed.
- Industry layout to include a segregated portion for the laboratory for conducting both chemical and microbiological tests
- It should be well ventilated with drain and power supply as per the requirement
- Preferably the testing lab to be away from the processing area to avoid any contamination of fumes or chemicals.
2) EQUIPMENT
In order to carry out the different necessary testing procedures, a small range of mandatory equipment are listed below:
For microbiological testing
- Incubators organisms are to be tested.
- Weighing balance
- Plate Counter Reader.
- Water Bath
- Sampling tools
- Autoclave
For Chemical testing
- Hot air oven
- Shaker
- ph Meter
- Weighing balance
You will also need a variety of consumables and other equipment that isn’t listed above to complete your laboratory needs.
3) CLOTHING
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is important to protect yourself and avoid contamination issues. The appropriate laboratory apparel should only be worn in the laboratory and laundered separately from factory and other work or clothing wear. It is also advised to wear disposable nitrile gloves when testing samples.
