Mérieux NutriSciences Invests in Chemistry Lab in South Africa

28 Aug 2013 --- In response to increasing client requirements, Mérieux NutriSciences through its Swift Silliker subsidiary, announced the launch of a new chemistry laboratory in Midrand, Johannesburg, today. After 22 years as a market leader in microbiological testing in South Africa, this marks the beginning of a new era for Swift Silliker.

The launch of this laboratory directly answers growing customer demand for chemistry testing, broadening the scope of services offered by Swift Silliker to provide food clients with one-stop services.

“Investing in this new chemistry laboratory in South Africa reflects Mérieux NutriSciences’ strategic ambition to expand our chemistry services and further establishes our Company as a vital global solution provider for the food industry,” said Philippe Sans, President and CEO of Mérieux NutriSciences.

“This state-of-the-art chemistry facility enhances our ability in the region to deliver practical and innovative solutions to companies throughout the food supply chain,” said Valmé Stewart, Managing Director of Swift Silliker.

Swift Silliker will provide chemistry tests such as the determination of moisture, total solid content, protein content, sodium, pH of various food, sugar, fatty acids, total fat content, ash content, and even certain mycotoxins (Aflatoxins B1, B2, G1 and G2). Additionally, validations and accreditations are already underway to enable this laboratory to include additional methods to its testing portfolio in the near future, including other groups of mycotoxins, cholesterol and starch analyses, etc.

The chemistry laboratory represents an additional 350 m2 of floor space adjacent to the existing Swift Silliker facilities in Midrand. The project was managed with a team of multi-national experts from the global network, using the best in class laboratory lay-outs, methods and equipment specifications from the group. With a focus on food and product safety, Swift Silliker has four locations in South Africa: Cape Town, Johannesburg, George and Durban.