MoniQA partners the Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR) and the Chinese Cereals and Oils Association (CCOA) have signed a formal Memorandum of Understanding that signals a closer collaboration on food safety research and development with a focus on detecting food hazards in the food chain.
The collaboration will initially focus on particular hazard areas such as mycotoxins. Mycotoxins are substances produced by moulds that contaminate agricultural produce such as grains and cereals either before harvest or under post-harvest conditions. Eating mycotoxin-contaminated produce is related to several acute and chronic diseases in humans as well as in animals.
Mycotoxins are a focal point for the collaboration that will also encompass, in time, other food safety issues relevant to both nations. The globalisation of food makes it essential for countries to work together to protect public and economic health.
Key personnel at ESR and CCOA have already engaged in bilateral scientific exchanges that will continue with cooperation on the MoniQA training workshop in Beijing that is scheduled for September.
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