In a groundbreaking move, the Lebanese Industrial Research Institute (IRI) and LEBAJICA joined forces to address Lebanon's pressing challenges in food safety and environmental sustainability. This dynamic collaboration, generously funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), has set its sights on utilizing advanced UV-Vis Spectrophotometer Equipment for applied research and testing.
Tackling Challenges Head-On:
Lebanon grapples with a perfect storm of food safety issues, environmental concerns, and a financial crisis impacting agricultural production. The LEBAJICA and IRI partnership, powered by JICA's support, aims to fortify food and environmental quality control measures. The initiative is ready to elevate Lebanon's adherence to local and international market standards, mitigating health risks linked to excessive food additives, food fraud, and examining metal concentrations in environmental effluents.
LEBAJICA, in tandem with IRI, envisions supporting the food safety system, propelling industrial development, and championing environmental stewardship. The cutting-edge UV-Vis Spectrophotometer has four pivotal components - a light source, monochromator, sample holder, and detector - facilitating quantitative analyses of molecular and ionic species in solution.
Key Outputs Unveiled:
1. Applied Research and Testing of Different Food Products:
• In-depth analysis and quantitative measurements of chemical substances across various food products.
• Identification of functional groups, organic compounds, and inorganic metals, driving applied research.
2. Environmental Analysis:
• Robust assessment of environmental impact, with a spotlight on water resources.
• Determination of chemical species concentrations in environmental effluents.
Empowering Minds:
To ensure a ripple effect, LEBAJICA and IRI arranged a comprehensive training and workshop event. IRI experts underwent intensive training by the equipment supplier, transforming them into adept trainers. These trainers then passed their knowledge through engaging workshops for students at the Lebanese University's Faculty of Health Sciences and industry professionals. The workshops focused on the UV-Vis Spectrophotometer's role in quality control within both the food and environmental domains.
This collaboration signifies a monumental stride forward for Lebanon, promising advancements in food safety, industrial development, and environmental management.
