Key Update

The Maharaja Ranjit Singh Punjab Technical University (MRSPTU) in Punjab inaugurated a ₹2.53-crore food testing lab in March, designed to test food and beverages for pesticides, toxic heavy metals, and nutritional content. The facility aims to support small and medium entrepreneurs in meeting the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) requirements. The project was originally proposed by former Union Minister and Bathinda MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal in January 2020 and officially opened by Union Minister of State for Food Processing Industries, Ravneet Singh Bittu.

Limited Commercial Samples Pose Challenge

Despite its advanced equipment, the lab receives only about 10 samples per month, primarily from students conducting academic research. Prof. Kawaljit Singh Sandhu, chairperson of the food science department, explained that organised sectors such as dairy, oil extraction, and food processing already maintain in-house labs. Meanwhile, unorganised food entrepreneurs often do not see lab testing as a value addition to their products.

Regional Industry Shortage Adds to the Problem

Experts highlight that southwest Punjab, including Bathinda, lacks a hub of agro-based industry. The limited presence of commercial food units means both MRSPTU and the Central University of Punjab’s lab struggle to attract industry clients.

Plans to Increase Industry Engagement

MRSPTU’s newly appointed Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sanjeev Kumar Sharma, instructed the food science department to actively reach out to companies and sign memorandums of understanding (MoUs). Prof. Sandhu added that the lab has applied for NABL accreditation, which could be a game-changer. “We expect approval in 6–8 months. Once accredited, we can offer competitive rates and professional services, including sample collection and standardised reporting,” he said.

Looking Ahead

The lab plans to open its equipment to technicians from local food units while building a dedicated operations team. With NABL accreditation and targeted industry outreach, MRSPTU hopes the facility will become a reliable, affordable resource for Punjab’s food sector, supporting quality compliance and boosting confidence in local food products.

Source: Hindustan Times