KUWAIT CITY, Feb 2: The Public Authority for Food and Nutrition (PAFN) launched its first mobile food testing laboratory in the State of Kuwait on Sunday at Kuwait International Airport.

Dr. Reem Al-Fulaij, Chairman and Director General of PAFN, told the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) that the project is part of the country’s broader development efforts aimed at ensuring food safety and expediting customs releases to facilitate trade exchanges.

Dr. Al-Fulaij explained that Kuwait is a major importer of food, making it essential to speed up the release process. The mobile laboratory, located at the airport, will allow for testing of perishable foods on-site, eliminating the need to transport them to the main laboratory in Shuwaikh.

This mobile facility plays a key role in maintaining food safety and control procedures. It is designed to be moved to other locations as needed, helping reduce costs and improve both quality and efficiency. Dr. Al-Fulaij pointed out that establishing a permanent laboratory at each outlet would require significant time, effort, and financial resources.

The laboratory was developed after conducting technical and financial feasibility studies. It is equipped with devices to conduct chemical tests on food, such as detecting pesticide residues and microorganisms, ensuring the safety and suitability of food for circulation. A dedicated technical team operates the laboratory around the clock.

Dr. Al-Fulaij also noted that there is an electronic link between the relevant authorities that manage the import of food. Once a shipment arrives at the Inspection Department, laboratory staff retrieve and examine the samples. The importer is notified of the examination results through the “Raqib” platform, allowing them to track the process.

This initiative is expected to enhance Kuwait’s food safety measures while streamlining the importation process.