Bureau Veritas brings food testing to the Cape

Bureau Veritas recently unveiled its technologically innovative, state-of-the-art microbiological laboratory in Cape Town. Designed and engineered to focus primarily on the fast-growing food and agricultural sectors in the Western Cape, the M&L Laboratory is an extension of the company’s Johannesburg laboratory.

The automated facility will improve lead times for testing and delivery efficiencies. Testing results will now be traceable and reported automatically off the refined Laboratory Information Management Software systems.

Waste will be reduced by more than 50 percent in this environmentally friendly green facility, which marks the company’s commitment to the country’s growth and development.

“We are proud of our unique, state-of-the-art facility which enhances our technical offering. It reflects our drive to get closer to our customers and provide a service that includes faster analysis time, traceable results and a reduction in human error. We are offering a unique solution in the marketplace – all under one roof,” says Joanne Barton, director of M&L Laboratories.

“Our accessible facility is in the hub of the food and agricultural centre in the country, eliminating the need to transport samples over long distances. The technology is sophisticated and highly accurate, which means our clients will receive technically competent analyses from our highly skilled professional team in a shorter timeframe, thereby adding value to their supply chain process,” she adds.

The benefits of shorter timeframes are particularly useful when dealing with high-risk foods such as fish.

In the agricultural sector, reduced lead times when testing for pesticides, aflatoxins, heavy metals and the like enhance product safety, ensuring the customer enjoys a safe and healthy experience.

Cosmetic and water testing will also be conducted in the new facility to ensure product safety and a longer shelf life.