As food poisoning cases continue to rise across South Africa, The Testing Company, a KwaZulu-Natal-based laboratory, is taking a stand to ensure food safety through rigorous scientific testing. Led by an all-women team, the company is dedicated to protecting public health by identifying food contamination risks and supporting regulatory compliance.

In partnership with Durban University of Technology (DUT), The Testing Company pioneers advanced research to safeguard the integrity of food, pharmaceutical, agricultural, and personal care products. As the only KZN laboratory licensed by the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority, they play a vital role in maintaining safety standards across multiple industries.

Chief Operating Officer Shivani Rampersad emphasised the urgency of food safety, particularly in light of increasing reports of contaminated food affecting school-aged children. She highlighted the importance of comprehensive testing at every stage of the supply chain to prevent illness and save lives.

The company provides a range of testing services for food manufacturers, from start-ups to established brands. Their expertise includes microbial testing to detect harmful bacteria, shelf-life analysis to determine food longevity, and nutritional verification to ensure compliance with health regulations.

Rampersad also addressed the challenges of food safety in restaurants and fast-food outlets, where freshly prepared meals are often not subjected to the same rigorous testing as packaged goods. While regulatory bodies enforce hygiene standards, consumer protection ultimately depends on strict adherence to safety protocols.

With a mission to create a safer and healthier future, The Testing Company remains committed to providing accessible and affordable food testing solutions. As the risk of food-borne illnesses continues to grow, their work serves as a crucial safeguard for both businesses and consumers.