BCSIR launches real-time PCR to inspect food adulteration

The state-run Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (BCSIR) Sunday introduced one of the most modern technologies to examine adulteration and diseases in various food items.

The technology, known as 'real-time polymerase chain reaction' (Real-Time PCR), was introduced at the inauguration ceremony of the newly-constructed building of Institute of Technology Transfer and Innovation (ITTI) under BCSIR.

Science and Technology Minister Yafes Osman inaugurated the building as the chief guest. BCSIR Chairman Md Faruque Ahmed, among others, also spoke on the inauguration.

BCSIR will use the Real-Time PCR technology to identify adulteration and disease in food items within the shortest period of time, said ITTI Project Director Dr Rezaul Karim.

He said Real-Time PCR is a unique technology, as it can quantify relatively small amount of PCR items like DNA, cDNA or RNA. Any company, organisation or individual can use the technology, introduced by BCSIR.

He said the technology can be very helpful for the safe food movements of the country.

ITTI has also begun 'amino acid analysis method development and training' to make tests of poultry feeds more accurate.

The analysis can test the standard and quality of amino acids, like - lihinin and methionine, used in poultry feed.

The minister said his government is eyeing to provide friendly technologies, which people can adopt easily.

Besides, the government is providing infrastructure and necessary funds for conducting scientific research.

World-class research is being conducted in the country with the establishment of modern laboratories, he added.

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