What to Expect from MoS George Kurian's Inauguration of the Milma–NDDB Food Testing Lab in Kochi?
Synopsis
The inauguration of the Milma–NDDB food testing laboratory in Kochi by Union Minister George Kurian promises a transformative impact on food safety standards in Kerala's dairy and food sectors. This state-of-the-art facility aims to enhance quality assurance and testing services, bolstering consumer confidence in food products.
Key Takeaways
State-of-the-art facility enhances food safety.
Partnership between Milma and NDDB.
Accredited by NABL for quality assurance.
Focus on testing dairy and agricultural products .
Supports local farmers and boosts consumer confidence .
Kochi, Jan 15 (NationPress) George Kurian, the Union Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, is set to launch a cutting-edge food testing laboratory in Kochi this Saturday. This initiative is a pivotal advancement in enhancing the quality assurance framework for Kerala's dairy and food industries.
The facility has been established through a partnership between Milma (Kerala Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation Ltd) and the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB).
Situated at the Ernakulam Regional Co-operative Milk Producers’ Union (ERCMPU) campus in Edappally, the laboratory is part of the NDDB CALF (Centre for Analysis and Learning in Livestock and Food) Limited.
This Kochi laboratory will operate as a branch of NDDB CALF Limited and will maintain the same rigorous professional and quality standards upheld by other NDDB laboratories nationwide.
Initially, the lab will focus on serving the testing needs of the dairy sector in Kerala and surrounding areas, with existing capabilities for thorough quality and safety assessments of milk and milk products.
C.N. Valsalan Pillai, Chairman of ERCMPU, mentioned that the laboratory's services will gradually expand to include testing of various food and agricultural products such as spices, fruits, vegetables, baked goods, ready-to-eat meals, fish, and related items.
Having received accreditation from the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL) in New Delhi, the laboratory complies with recognized national testing standards.
Dr. Rajesh Nair, Managing Director of NDDB CALF, stated that the Kochi lab, equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure and advanced equipment, will also support state government agencies and food safety authorities by offering scientific testing services to address food safety challenges.
NDDB CALF Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of the NDDB, is based in Anand, Gujarat, and has been delivering analytical testing, research, and advisory services to the dairy, food, and agricultural sectors, along with regulatory bodies, for over 17 years.
Point of View
I believe the inauguration of the Milma–NDDB food testing laboratory is a noteworthy achievement for Kerala's agricultural landscape. This facility will not only enhance food safety standards but also support local dairy farmers, fostering trust between consumers and producers. Such advancements are crucial in today's food industry, where quality assurance is paramount.
NationPress
1 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Milma–NDDB food testing lab?
The lab aims to strengthen the quality assurance infrastructure for Kerala's dairy and food sectors by providing comprehensive testing services.
Who inaugurated the food testing laboratory?
The laboratory was inaugurated by Union Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, George Kurian.
Where is the food testing laboratory located?
The laboratory is situated at the Ernakulam Regional Co-operative Milk Producers’ Union (ERCMPU) campus in Edappally, Kochi.
What types of products will the lab test?
Initially, it will test dairy products, with plans to expand to other food items like spices, fruits, and ready-to-eat meals.
Is the lab accredited?
Yes, the laboratory has received accreditation from the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL), ensuring adherence to national standards.
