CIFTest kits set for Commercial Level Production

CIFTest kits for detection of formalin and ammonia contamination in fish all
set for Commercial Level Production

Dr. Ravishankar C.N., Director, ICAR-CIFT  handing over the MOU to Mr. Vishnu Warke, Director, HiMedia Laboratories

CIFTest, the rapid detection kit developed by the ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Technology, Cochin to detect the presence of chemical preservatives formalin and ammonia in fish is set for commercial production. The technology has been licensed to the Mumbai-based HiMedia Laboratories Pvt. Ltd., and the formal exchange of the MoU was held at a simple function at ICAR-CIFT, Cochin on 4th July, 2018. Dr. Ravishankar, C.N., Director, ICAR- CIFT said that the Institute has been in the forefront of technology development for the harvest and post harvest fisheries sectors. The development of the detection kit was in response to the felt needs of the ordinary fish consumer to detect contaminants and allay their apprehensions. Mr. Vishnu Warke, Director, HiMedia Laboratories said that the company which had its presence in over 175 countries and has the wherewithal to produce sufficient quantities of the product that will be made available to public very soon at affordable rates. He reiterated the commitment of the company to provide their products to the Indian and export market at affordable prices. Smt. S.J. Laly and Smt. E.R. Priya, Scientists of ICAR-CIFT who developed the rapid detection kits in record time, were felicitated during the function. Dr. A.A. Zynudheen, Head, Quality Assurance and Management Division welcomed the gathering and Dr. George Ninan, In-charge, Institute Technology Management Unit offered vote of thanks.