The Indian Council of Agricultural Research-Central Institute of Fisheries Technology (ICAR-CIFT) has been officially recognized as a Centre of Excellence in Food Authenticity. This notable designation was announced during a national workshop titled “Food Authenticity and Traceability using Omics Techniques,” held at the institute as part of the ICAR-NASF Foodomics Project in partnership with Waters India Pvt. Ltd.
Advancing Food Authentication and Quality Assurance
This achievement highlights a significant advancement in food authentication research and quality assurance within India, particularly focusing on the fisheries sector. The declaration came as part of an event that brought together eminent scientists and industry experts to push the boundaries of food safety and traceability technologies.
Strategic Partnerships to Enhance Food Safety
During the event, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was exchanged between Dr. George Ninan, Director of ICAR-CIFT, and T. Anil Kumar, President of Waters India Pvt. Ltd. This MoU cements a strategic partnership aimed at advancing food authentication technologies across India. Such collaborations are pivotal in enhancing India’s capabilities in ensuring the integrity of food products through cutting-edge scientific tools and international cooperation.
Keynote Insights and Technical Sessions
The workshop featured a keynote address by Dr. L.N. Murthy, Senior Executive Director of the National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB), Hyderabad, who emphasized the critical need for national traceability systems for fish and fishery products. The technical sessions were led by Shri Shrinivas B. Joshi, Associate Director of the Food & Environment Market at Waters India Pvt. Ltd., and Dr. Niladri Sekhar Chatterjee, Senior Scientist at ICAR-CIFT. These sessions highlighted innovative approaches and technologies aimed at enhancing food traceability and safety standards.
Impact and Future Prospects
ICAR-CIFT’s recognition as a Centre of Excellence in Food Authenticity is set to significantly boost research and development in this vital area. It positions India as a leader in the global effort to enhance food safety and traceability, promising to bring forth new technologies that ensure the integrity and authenticity of food products.
In conclusion, the establishment of the Centre of Excellence in Food Authenticity at ICAR-CIFT represents a major leap forward for India’s fisheries sector and its overall food safety and traceability endeavors. This initiative not only enhances India’s standing in global food safety but also assures consumers about the quality and authenticity of their food.