1 Food Chemistry Department
This testing department undertakes chemical, physical and organoleptic analysis on various food and agriculture products and produce including drinks (beverages) to ascertain quality and level of compliance with applicable standards. By design, there are five (5) laboratories under this department:
5.1.1 Chemical Components and Proximate Analysis Laboratory – which undertakes chemical analysis, proximate analysis, and organoleptic tests on food and agriculture products and produce.
5.1.2 Drinks and Potable Water laboratory – which performs various chemical analysis and organoleptic tests on beverages (alcohol and non-alcohol) and potable water.
5.1.3 Mycotoxins and Histamine Laboratory – which performs analysis to ascertain the levels of toxins in food products and agriculture produce (e.g. cereals, legumes, fish and fishery products).
5.1.4 Metallic Contaminants Laboratory – which performs analysis to ascertain levels of metallic contaminants as well as essential elements in various food products/produce.
5.1.5 Pesticide Residues Laboratory – which performs analysis to ascertain levels of pesticide residues and other residues as well as active ingredients in formulations. The laboratory also undertakes analyses for PAH (Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon) and related compounds in food samples/products e.g. in smoked fish.
Note: Currently, only two (2) of the five (5) laboratories under the Food Chemistry Department has been established and operational (i.e. the Chemical Components and Proximate Analysis Laboratory; Drinks and Potable Water Analysis laboratory).
