DA launches Philippine’s first mobile plant food safety lab

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Agriculture (DA) yesterday unveiled the country’s first mobile plant food safety laboratory to help ensure clean and safe food for Filipinos.

The P20-million mobile lab can be used to accommodate rapid screening and testing for pesticide residue, heavy metals and microbiological contaminants.

The Bureau of Plant Industry said the modular setup can test 20 to 30 samples per day at an affordable cost.

The lab can also be upgraded or interchanged to accommodate priority hazards in plant foods, allowing flexibility and mobility to tailor responses needed for food safety, according to Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel.

“This laboratory-on-wheels brings the tools of food safety directly to our agricultural communities, enabling proactive monitoring and immediate intervention. Its mobility ensures flexibility and accessibility, allowing us to reach even the most remote areas and respond promptly to emerging crises,” he said in a statement.

Laurel said that the DA is open to adopting new technologies to ensure food safety in the country.