AMC to test food samples from overseas, govt units

The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC)’s food testing laboratory will examine food samples sent by seaports, the airport and central Gujarat’s ICDC (Integrated Child Development Scheme).

According to sources, the laboratory has been empanelled by the Food and Drug Control Administration of the state department. Besides AMC’s laboratory, three other laboratories in Vadodara, Bhuj and Rajkot will conduct testing of samples.

“All the four laboratories have been declared as state laboratories and, therefore, samples from various ports across the state will be sent to these labs for analysis,” said a senior official. 

In wake of the state government’s decision, the civic body has announced a fee chart. There are two categories of charges -- Rs5000 and Rs12,000. 

“Samples of milk-based products and cereals, water and mineral water will be tested at Rs12,000 per sample, while testing for the rest will cost Rs5,000,” said the official, adding the development would help shore up the civic body’s revenues.