While the large scale food processing units may set up their own laboratories, it may prove to be a heavy cost overhead for small-scaleand medium units. The Analytical and Quality Control Laboratory (AQCL), attached to the University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore, is answer for food processing units looking for laboratory assistance.

The AQCL was established with a view to facilitate the promotion of the Indian food trade and industry by the University of Agricultural Sciences, Division of Horticulture, at its campus with the support of the Centre for Technology Development.

The AQCL helps in monitoring the quality of processed foods manufactured even by smaller and medium level foodindustries that cannot afford the cost of setting up an in-house analytical laboratory. They may avail the facilities of the laboratory for obtaining an independent certification of the quality of the products manufactured by them. The laboratory can also assist in effecting improvement in product quality and thus compete both with national and international markets.

The primary aim of the laboratory is to promote the production of wholesome and nutritious food products by offering technical expertise such as:* Independent analytical quality reports on raw and processed foods manufactured by industries.

* Assess the nutritional quality and safety of food products for human consumption.

* Training to personnel from agricultural universities and industry apart from post-graduate students.

* Collaborate with other universities and institutions in allied programmes.The AQCL is well-equipped to undertake proximate, general and microbial analysis of all types of food and feed articles, processed foodsand allied items including raw and processed fruits and vegetables; spices and condiments; oil seeds, deoiled cake and animal feeds alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages anti-oxidants; colouring matter; thickeners, emulsifiers and stabilisers; contaminants artificial sweeteners and pesticide residues. The laboratory is fully supported to take up these analysis by qualified and experienced staff. And the schedule of analytical charges is available on request.

For more details, one may write to: Professor and Head, Division of Horticulture, University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK Campus, Bangalore-560065, or A G Huddar, scientist-in-charge, Analytical and Quality Control Laboratory, Centre for processed Foods, Division of Horticulture, University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK Campus, Bangalore-560065.