Hi-tech milk lab opened

MUMBAI, Sept 7:

A state-of-the-art, hi-tech quality control laboratory capable of detecting even minute adulteration in milk and milk products has been set up at the state government dairy at Worli.

Inaugurated by Revenue and Dairy Development Minister Narayan Rane today, the laboratory is the first of its kind in India. Provided with imported computerised equipment worth Rs 1.70 crore, it is expected to detect the rampant milk adulteration in Mumbai and nearby places, quickly and accurately. Tests of samples would be ready within few hours, lab technicians said.

For example, Milko-Scan can detect fat content, proteins, lactose and percentage of other solid ingredients in milk within 30 seconds while Cryoschope can measure the freezing point of the milk with extreme precision. The freezing point of milk and water being different, the experts can trace any small amount of water added to the milk. Gas Chromatograph Mass Spectrometer can detect adulteration in milk products like ghee or even masala milk, besides showing if a milk product has an unusual flavour.