Industrial Seminar

Industrial Seminar on “Managing Additives and Adulterants in the Food Industry” was organized by the Institute of Food Science and Technology Sri Lanka (IFSTSL) in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Food Processors Association (SLFPA) as a part of the annual Profood/Propack exhibition 2024.  The event took place from 9:00 am to 1.00 pm at the Mihilaka Medura, BMICH. IFSTSL aimed to address critical issues surrounding food additives, adulterants, meeting compliance and their regulatory management through this seminar.

The seminar opened with a welcome address by Prof. Anoma Chandrasekara, who underscored the critical nature of food safety in Sri Lanka’s growing food sector. Mr. Thusith Wijesinghe, president SLFPA, delivered the Introductory Remarks, setting the stage by highlighting the pressing need for assuring food safety while managing the productivity in the manufacturing sector.

The chief guest, Ms. Thilaka Jayasundara, delivered an inspiring keynote on the Sri Lankan food industry’s importance and the significant responsibilities of stakeholders across the food supply chain. Her insights emphasized the industry’s pivotal role in not only catering to local demand but also in meeting global quality standards, urging participants to adopt rigorous food safety practices.

The event featured a series of thought-provoking presentations by experts, each addressing vital aspects of managing food additives and adulterants in the food industry:

• Food Additives, Food Adulterants, and Food Safety

Presented by Prof. Eresha Mendis; this session examined the foundational concepts surrounding food additives and adulterants. Prof. Mendis emphasized the role of food additives in enhancing product quality and shelf life but highlighted the risks when used irresponsibly. Her talk highlighted the importance of safe and responsible practices in managing these substances to protect public health.

• Food Additives: Purpose and Correct Usage

Dr. Sumudu Warnakulasuriya delivered into the purpose of food additives, elaborating on their correct applications within the food industry. Dr. Warnakulasuriya discussed different types of additives, such as preservatives, colorants, flavor enhancers, and emulsifiers, emphasizing the importance of adhering to recommended dosages and regulatory guidelines to prevent adverse effects on consumer health.

• Food Additives: Regulatory Requirements

In this session, Prof. K.K.D.S Ranaweera highlighted the regulatory framework governing the use of food additives in Sri Lanka. Prof. Ranaweera discussed both national and international standards, including Codex Alimentarius guidelines, that dictate permissible levels of additives. He further elaborated on the need for compliance within the industry to maintain consumer trust and facilitate access to global markets.

• Food Adulterants in Raw Materials: Common Types, Identification, and Control

Prof. Ilmi Hewajulige presented on the challenges posed by adulterants in raw materials. Her session explored common types of adulterants encountered in various raw ingredients and offered practical methods for identification and control. Prof. Hewajulige’s insights emphasized the responsibility of food manufacturers in verifying the purity of raw materials and adopting stringent quality checks to prevent adulteration.

• Reported Incidents Associated with Additives and Adulterants in Sri Lanka

Dr. Gamini Rajanayake reviewed documented incidents of health hazards related to food additives and adulterants in Sri Lanka. Dr. Rajanayake’s analysis of past cases highlighted the consequences of inadequate oversight and provided participants with valuable lessons on the importance of compliance and vigilance within the food supply chain.

Following the presentations, a question-and-answer session offered participants the opportunity to engage directly with the speakers. To recognize their participation, each attendee was awarded a certificate of participation. SLFPA took the lead in publicizing the event, with Lanka Exhibition and Conference Services Pvt Ltd (LECS) contributing to the outreach effort. The seminar was moderated by Mr. Dhammika Gunasekara. The event was coordinated by Prof. Eresha Mendis, with the support of Mr. Thusith Wijesinghe, President of SLFPA ensuring smooth organization.