Testtex India Laboratories Pvt. Ltd. stands equipped with state-of-the-art technology, offering a comprehensive range of chemical, mechanical, analytical, instrumental, packaging, and microbiological tests and analyses. These services cater to various industries, including textiles, leather, water, food, packaging, construction, household products, and protective wear. The entry of international players into the Indian market has enhanced Testtex India’s reputation. By adhering to rigorous international standards demanded by global clients, Testtex India consistently exceeds expectations. The company offers extensive services, including testing, inspection, and consultancy.
Testtex India is accredited under ISO/IEC 17025:2005 quality standards and certified by the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL). It is approved by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and accredited by the United States Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) with identification number 1437. Additionally, Testtex is recognized by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).
Testtex India employs cutting-edge methodologies and actively contributes to their development through industry memberships. The laboratory conducts tests according to standards set by esteemed organizations such as the American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists (AATCC), BIS, ASTM, DIN, ISO, BS, SASO, GSO, ES, IQS, ISIRI, AOAC, APHA, EPA, USP, BP, IP, and EUP.
In an exclusive interview with The Interview World at BIOFACH INDIA 2024, organized by APEDA, Kunal Shingala, COO and Director of Testtex India Laboratories Pvt. Ltd., elaborates on the services his organization offers. He shares insights into the volume of tests conducted, underscores the importance of product testing for brands, discusses the growing inclination of Indian manufacturers towards these tests, and highlights the necessity of testing for contamination in children’s toys. Here are the key insights from his interview.
Q: What are the primary services provided by Testtex?
A: Testtex India Laboratories Pvt. Ltd. boasts 35 years of expertise in the TIC industry, specializing in testing, inspection, and certification. We conduct rigorous tests on a wide array of consumer products, such as textiles, leather, footwear, toys, and electrical items. Our capabilities extend to industrial helmets, hard goods, and food contact materials. In the food and water sectors, we ensure the quality and safety of organic and agricultural products, adhering strictly to FSSAI guidelines for both domestic consumption and exports.
Our services also encompass the pharmaceutical industry, offering comprehensive testing for compliance with both Indian and international standards. In addition, we provide extensive cosmetic testing to meet global export requirements. Beyond testing, we conduct thorough inspections, auditing factories and manufacturing facilities to ensure regulatory compliance. For example, in chemical factories, we perform detailed chemical hazard assessments to maintain safety and adhere to regulatory standards. Our commitment to excellence ensures the highest standards of quality and safety.
Q: Is your organization certified to conduct these tests?
A: Yes, we hold certification from NABL for ISO 17025, which authorizes us to operate laboratories. Additionally, we are certified by APEDA and FSSAI. For exports, we have IOPPC certification. These accreditations enable us to conduct all necessary tests in-house.
Q: How many products has your organization tested to date?
A: We proudly offer a portfolio exceeding 1,200 products and cater to a diverse clientele of over 15,000. Our industry success hinges on the breadth of testing capabilities. To that end, we conduct between 15,000 and 20,000 tests on a wide range of products, ensuring thorough analysis across different categories and specifications.
Q: How critical is product testing for maintaining and enhancing brand reputation and consumer trust?
A: Testing instills confidence in brands. It reassures you about your product, its quality, and what you deliver to your customers. In today’s world, where awareness is crucial, testing empowers you to effectively communicate the benefits and functionality of your product to clients.
Q: Do Indian manufacturers show a strong inclination towards adopting these types of tests?
A: There are two primary approaches. First, some brands voluntarily conduct tests to assess their quality. These brands are highly quality-conscious and perform testing at a batch level. Second, regulatory bodies mandate certain tests, making them compulsory. This regulation ensures adherence but can be costly, particularly for smaller companies. Consequently, the process may take time for all businesses to comply. Thus, the approach is a combination of proactive quality assurance by brands and obligatory testing enforced by regulatory bodies.
Q: How do you address parents’ concerns about contamination in toys, especially given the impact on young children?
A: Toys are profoundly impactful products, primarily because they cater to children under the age of 14. Children often engage with toys by putting them in their mouths, which raises safety concerns for parents. To address these concerns, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has established rigorous guidelines. These regulations mandate that toys undergo thorough testing to ensure they are safe for children. Without these certifications and test results, it is illegal to sell toys in India.
Small toy manufacturers are also required to comply with these standards. The BIS has introduced a specific section for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), ensuring that all toy producers, regardless of size, meet these safety requirements. Compliance with these regulations is essential for selling toys in India.