Run also by the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO), Analytical Week attendees attempted to address the question, “How can analysis promote sustainability in the dairy chain?”
According to the IDF, speakers demonstrated how, through the use of the ISO 14001 standard, within-laboratory initiatives can reduce the dairy industry’s burden on the environment.
Jaap Evers, chair of the IDF Methods Standards Steering Group said the joint IDF/ISO programme of work “clearly” created value to dairy chain stakeholders and the consumer by developing internationally harmonised and globally accepted testing methods for the production of nutritious, safe and sustainable dairy products.
“On the basis of the many advances in analytical technology, I anticipate that developments in analytical testing will create further win-win outcomes in the near future,” he said.
Event speakers also demonstrated how “innovative means” of recycling or reducing of laboratory consumables and reagents can help lessen the burden of the dairy sector on the environment, said IDF.
“Specifically-developed new testing methodology” was also shown to support wider sustainability initiatives by the dairy sector, such as improving waste water management practices, and animal feeding practices, said the organisation.
Over 190 experts gathered at the event last week in Lyon, France, to discuss the latest developments and future projects for methods of analysis in the dairy sector.
Hosted by the IDF French National Committee (FIL France), the event provided a platform for experts to work on topical analysis issues, such as the need for a reference system for somatic cell counting in milk, and initiatives underpinning food safety testing.