Whether you're a small food business or a large-scale manufacturer, ensuring that your food is safe, high-quality, and free from contaminants is non-negotiable. With rising consumer awareness and stricter FSSAI guidelines, regular food testing helps you stay compliant, protect your brand reputation, and build trust with consumers.
From identifying allergens and adulterants to performing comprehensive microbiological and chemical analysis, Equinox Labs provides complete food testing solutions tailored to your business needs. Our testing helps detect cross-contamination, ingredient mismatches, and potential consumer health risks, ensuring every product is fit for consumption and regulatory approval.
Food testing is the scientific analysis of food samples to evaluate their safety, quality, nutritional content, and compliance with regulatory standards. It involves examining food products for harmful microorganisms, chemical contaminants, physical defects, allergens, and adulterants that could pose health risks to consumers.
Food testing laboratories like Equinox Labs use advanced analytical methods and equipment to provide accurate, reliable results that help food businesses maintain product quality, meet FSSAI requirements, and protect consumer health.1
Food adulteration, low-quality ingredients, and unsafe handling practices continue to pose serious threats in the Indian food market. Regular food testing helps businesses:
Regular testing identifies microbial growth, ingredient degradation, and potential adulterants before they affect product quality or consumer health. Early detection prevents costly recalls and protects your brand reputation.
Routine checks help you meet regulatory standards, avoid penalties, and prevent costly product recalls due to non-compliance. Under FSSAI guidelines, food businesses must test products periodically with a minimum gap of 3 months between testing of the same food product.2
Identify hidden allergens using specialized test panels to protect sensitive consumers and maintain label accuracy. Allergen testing is crucial for "free from" claims like gluten-free, nut-free, or dairy-free products.
Testing supports safe storage, batching, and handling practices, minimizing the risk of contamination across production stages. This is especially important for facilities producing multiple product lines.
Consumers increasingly rely on trusted cues and verified information to assess food quality and safety.3 Regular testing and transparent reporting build confidence in your brand, leading to increased customer loyalty and repeat purchases.
Equinox Labs offers comprehensive food testing services covering all aspects of food safety and quality:4
Microbiological testing identifies harmful bacteria, yeasts, molds, and viruses that can cause foodborne illnesses and affect shelf life.
Key Tests Include: - Pathogen detection (Salmonella, E. coli, Listeria, Staphylococcus aureus) - Total plate count (TPC) for overall microbial load - Yeast and mold count for spoilage organisms - Coliform and fecal coliform testing - Hygiene monitoring through environmental swabs
Testing Methods: - Culture methods on selective media - PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) for rapid DNA-based detection - ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) for specific pathogen identification
Applications: Essential for ready-to-eat foods, dairy products, meat products, beverages, and any food with high moisture content.
Chemical analysis examines the chemical composition of food to determine nutritional content, detect contaminants, and verify ingredient authenticity.
Key Tests Include: - Nutritional profiling (protein, fat, carbohydrates, moisture, ash content) - Heavy metals testing (lead, mercury, cadmium, arsenic) - Pesticide residue analysis - Food additives and preservatives verification - Adulterant detection - Mycotoxin testing (aflatoxins, ochratoxin)
Testing Methods: - HPLC (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography) - GC-MS (Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry) - Spectrophotometry for nutrient detection - Titration for acidity and alkalinity - Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) for heavy metals
Applications: Required for nutritional labeling, export certification, FSSAI compliance, and product claim validation.
Physical testing evaluates the physical attributes of food that affect consumer perception and product quality.
Key Tests Include: - Texture analysis (firmness, chewiness, crispness) - Color measurement and consistency - Viscosity testing for liquids and semi-solids - Particle size analysis for powdered foods - Foreign matter detection - Packaging integrity testing
Testing Methods: - Texture analyzers with specialized probes - Colorimeters for objective color measurement - Viscometers for flow properties - Microscopy for particle analysis
Applications: Critical for quality control, product development, shelf life studies, and maintaining batch-to-batch consistency.
Sensory analysis involves trained panels assessing food's taste, smell, appearance, and texture to ensure consumer acceptability.
Key Tests Include: - Discrimination tests (triangle tests, duo-trio tests) - Descriptive analysis of flavor profiles - Hedonic testing for consumer preference - Shelf life sensory evaluation - Off-flavor and off-odor detection
Applications: Essential for new product development, quality assurance, competitive benchmarking, and determining optimal shelf life.
Allergen testing identifies the presence of allergenic substances, even in trace amounts, to protect sensitive consumers and ensure accurate labeling.
Key Allergens Tested: - Gluten (wheat, barley, rye) - Tree nuts and peanuts - Milk and dairy proteins - Eggs - Soy - Fish and shellfish - Sesame - Mustard
Testing Methods: - ELISA for quantifying allergenic proteins - PCR for allergen-specific DNA detection - Lateral flow devices for rapid screening
Applications: Mandatory for "free from" product claims, cross-contamination verification, and regulatory compliance with FSSAI labeling requirements.
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) mandates periodic testing for all food businesses to ensure product safety and quality.5
| Parameter Category | Testing Scope |
|---|---|
| Microbiological | Pathogenic bacteria, total plate count, yeast & mold, coliforms |
| Chemical | Nutritional content, additives, preservatives, contaminants |
| Physical | Moisture content, particle size, texture, color, foreign matter |
| Nutritional | Protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, energy value |
| Adulteration | Detection of unauthorized substances and adulterants |
| Allergen | Identification of major allergens as per labeling requirements |
| Contaminants | Heavy metals, pesticide residues, veterinary drug residues |
| Toxins | Mycotoxins, naturally occurring toxins |
| Residues | Pesticides, antibiotics, hormones |
Different food categories require specific testing parameters based on their composition, processing methods, and risk profiles:
Equinox Labs employs internationally recognized testing methods and state-of-the-art analytical equipment to ensure accurate, reliable results:
| Equipment | Application |
|---|---|
| HPLC (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography) | Vitamins, preservatives, additives, mycotoxins |
| GC-MS (Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry) | Pesticide residues, volatile compounds, fatty acids |
| ICP-MS (Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry) | Heavy metals, trace elements |
| PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) | Pathogen detection, species identification, GMO testing |
| ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) | Allergens, mycotoxins, pathogen screening |
| Spectrophotometer | Nutrient analysis, color measurement |
| Texture Analyzer | Firmness, hardness, chewiness, crispness |
| Colorimeter | Objective color measurement |
| Viscometer | Flow properties of liquids and semi-solids |
| Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) | Heavy metal analysis |
Proper sample collection and transportation are critical for accurate test results:6
Equinox Labs can provide sample collection kits and guidance on proper sampling procedures to ensure test accuracy.
Lab testing ensures uniform product quality across batches, leading to fewer complaints and a stronger reputation in the market. Consumers are more likely to trust and purchase from brands that demonstrate commitment to quality through regular testing.7
Stay audit-ready with comprehensive documentation and reports that meet both Indian and international regulatory requirements. This facilitates export opportunities and reduces compliance-related stress.
Safe, high-quality products build long-term customer relationships that directly impact your bottom line. Customer retention is significantly more cost-effective than customer acquisition.
Confidently label products as low sugar, dairy-free, allergen-safe, or organic — backed by credible test results from NABL-accredited laboratories that set your brand apart from competitors.
Proactive testing identifies problems before products reach consumers, preventing expensive recalls, legal liabilities, and irreparable damage to brand reputation.
Testing data provides valuable insights for product formulation, shelf life optimization, and quality improvement initiatives.
From baked goods to beverages, every batch should be tested for quality and safety. Regular testing ensures consistency, compliance, and consumer protection across production runs.
Consistency across locations matters — and testing keeps it on track. Verify ingredient quality, monitor food handling practices, and ensure uniform taste and safety standards.
Keep employees and stakeholders safe with regular testing of raw materials, prepared foods, and water quality. Demonstrate duty of care and prevent foodborne illness outbreaks.
Home bakers, snack brands, and artisanal food producers looking to build credibility and scale their businesses need testing to validate quality claims and meet regulatory requirements.
Comply with both origin and destination country regulations. Testing certificates are often mandatory for customs clearance and market access.
Verify supplier quality, conduct shelf life studies, and ensure products meet your quality standards before they reach consumers.
Equinox Labs is India's leading FSSAI-notified and NABL-accredited testing and compliance partner, trusted by over 15,000 clients across industries.8 With more than 20 years of expertise, we specialize in food, water, environment, and indoor air quality testing, helping businesses meet national and international safety standards with confidence.
1. Comprehensive Testing Capabilities
From basic microbiological screening to advanced chemical analysis, we offer complete testing solutions under one roof, eliminating the need for multiple laboratory partnerships.
2. Fast Turnaround Times
Most standard tests are completed within 3-5 working days. Expedited services available for urgent requirements to minimize production delays.
3. Advanced Infrastructure
State-of-the-art equipment including HPLC, GC-MS, ICP-MS, PCR, and ELISA systems ensure accurate, reliable results that stand up to regulatory scrutiny.
4. Expert Consultation
Our team of food scientists and regulatory experts provides guidance on testing requirements, compliance strategies, and corrective actions when issues are identified.
5. End-to-End Compliance Support
Beyond testing, we offer FSSAI license assistance, nutritional labeling, shelf life studies, audits, and FoSTaC training — everything you need for complete food safety compliance.
6. Transparent Reporting
Clear, detailed test reports with interpretation guidance help you understand results and take appropriate action. All reports are digitally accessible through our client portal.
7. Competitive Pricing
Quality testing doesn't have to break the bank. We offer cost-effective testing packages tailored to different business sizes and requirements.
Food adulteration remains a significant concern in India. Regular testing helps detect common adulterants:9
Equinox Labs uses validated methods to detect even sophisticated adulteration attempts, protecting your brand and consumers.
Contact our food testing experts to discuss your products, testing requirements, and compliance needs. We'll recommend appropriate test packages based on your food category and business goals.
We provide guidance on proper sample collection or can arrange sample pickup from your facility. Sample collection kits and instructions are available.
Your samples are analyzed using validated methods in our NABL-accredited laboratory by experienced technicians and food scientists.
Receive detailed test reports within 3-5 working days (for standard tests) with clear interpretation and recommendations. Reports are accessible through our online portal.
If issues are identified, our experts provide guidance on corrective actions, retesting, and compliance strategies to resolve problems efficiently.
Yes, under FSSAI guidelines, food businesses must test products periodically to ensure safety and compliance. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India requires regular testing to meet regulatory standards and protect consumer health.
Not always — batch testing frequency depends on the product type, ingredients, and shelf life. FSSAI mandates that the gap between two mandatory testing of the same food product shall not be less than 3 months.2 Our experts can help you plan a suitable testing schedule based on your specific products and risk profile.
Absolutely. We offer custom allergy test panels for gluten, nuts, soy, dairy, eggs, fish, shellfish, sesame, mustard, and other allergens using validated methods like ELISA and PCR to detect even trace amounts.
Most standard food testing reports are available within 3–5 working days depending on test parameters. Expedited services may be available for urgent requirements. Complex tests requiring specialized analysis may take longer.
We offer five main types of food testing:4
We use internationally recognized testing methods and state-of-the-art equipment including:
All methods follow FSSAI Manual of Methods, AOAC, ISO, and other validated protocols.
Food samples must be collected in clean, unused, sealed containers with proper labeling including date, time, and place of collection. Perishable samples should be transported at 4°C on ice packs in insulated boxes. Frozen samples must remain frozen during transport. Dry or canned foods collected at ambient temperatures need not be refrigerated.6 We can provide detailed guidance on proper sample collection procedures.
FSSAI requires testing across multiple parameters depending on the food product:5
Food businesses must conduct testing at least every 6 months with a minimum 3-month gap between tests of the same product.
Yes, we can arrange sample pickup from your facility in major cities across India. We also provide sample collection kits and detailed instructions for proper sampling if you prefer to collect samples yourself.
Absolutely. Beyond testing, we offer comprehensive FSSAI compliance support including license application assistance, nutritional labeling, label validation, shelf life studies, FoSTaC training, and audit services.
We serve diverse sectors including: - Food manufacturing and processing - Restaurant chains and cloud kitchens - Corporate canteens and institutional kitchens - Hotels and hospitality (HoReCa) - Retail chains and supermarkets - D2C food brands and home-based entrepreneurs - Food importers and exporters - Schools, colleges, and hospitals
Yes, our reports are fully accepted for FSSAI compliance, export certification (APEDA), and regulatory submissions. As an FSSAI-notified and NABL-accredited laboratory, our test reports meet all regulatory requirements.
If issues are identified, our food scientists provide detailed guidance on: - Root cause analysis - Corrective and preventive actions - Process improvements - Retesting protocols - Regulatory compliance strategies
We work with you to resolve issues efficiently and prevent recurrence.
Your path to certification and quality assurance starts here. Whether you're launching a new product, scaling your food business, or ensuring ongoing compliance, Equinox Labs is your trusted partner for comprehensive food testing and compliance solutions.
Contact Equinox Labs Today:
Share your requirements, and our team will guide you through the next steps with expert consultation, competitive pricing, and fast turnaround times.
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Food Safety and Standards Authority of India. (2021). "Order Clarification Product Testing." FSSAI. https://fssai.gov.in/upload/advisories/2021/07/60ec3f6460fd4Order_Clarification_Product_Testing_12_07_2021.pdf ↩↩
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Equinox Labs. (2025). "Certifications." https://www.equinoxlab.com/certifications ↩
Anagaw, Y.K., et al. (2024). "Food adulteration: Causes, risks, and detection techniques." PMC. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11080768/ ↩
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AmbitionBox. "Equinox Labs Reviews by 300+ Employees." https://www.ambitionbox.com/reviews/equinox-labs-reviews ↩