First mobile food testing lab at the airport

02/02/2025

First mobile food testing lab at the airport

KUWAIT CITY, Feb 2: The Public Authority for Food and Nutrition (PAFN) has officially opened Kuwait’s first mobile food testing laboratory today at the Kuwait International Airport. This new initiative is part of the country’s ongoing development projects aimed at ensuring food safety and streamlining customs procedures to facilitate trade. Dr. Reem Al-Fulaij, Chairman of the Board of Directors and Director General of the Authority, explained that the laboratory’s establishment aims to accelerate the clearance of food products, especially perishables, by conducting testing directly at the airport. This eliminates the need to transport goods to the main laboratory in Shuwaikh, ensuring faster and more efficient testing.

The mobile lab is designed to maintain food safety protocols and can be relocated to other outlets as necessary. This flexibility helps reduce operational costs while improving quality and effectiveness. Dr. Al-Fulaij highlighted that establishing individual labs at each outlet would require significant resources, both financially and in terms of time and effort. The laboratory is equipped with advanced testing devices capable of conducting chemical analyses, such as detecting pesticide residues and harmful microorganisms in food products.

A dedicated technical team operates the lab around the clock to ensure timely results. Additionally, the lab is electronically linked with relevant authorities, allowing for seamless communication. Once shipments arrive at the Inspection Department, laboratory staff promptly collect and examine samples. Importers can track the progress of their sample examination and receive updates through the Raqib platform, ensuring transparency and efficiency in the process. (KUNA)