Sunchang County Receives 'Excellent' Rating in International Assessment of Agricultural Product Pesticide Residue Analysis

Participation from 49 Institutions Worldwide

The Sunchang County Agricultural Technology Center in North Jeolla Province has received an 'Excellent' rating for the second consecutive year in the international assessment of agricultural product pesticide residue analysis.

According to the county on June 2, this assessment is the International Proficiency Test (FAPAS) organized by the Food and Environment Research Agency (FERA) in the United Kingdom. In this test, analysis institutions from around the world analyze identical samples to compare the accuracy and reliability of their results.

Exterior view of Sunchang County Office. Provided by Sunchang County

This is considered one of the most prestigious assessments in the field of pesticide residue analysis, with government agencies, research institutes, and private analysis organizations participating every year.

The evaluation method involves the organizing agency providing the same sample to all participating institutions worldwide. Each institution submits its analysis results, and their analytical capabilities are judged based on the standard score (z-score). If this score falls within ±2.0, the institution is recognized as having internationally reliable analytical competence.

This year, 49 institutions from around the world participated. The Sunchang County Agricultural Technology Center analyzed a total of 13 components and met the criteria in all categories, earning an 'Excellent' rating.

Based on this expertise, the center currently conducts approximately 1,200 analyses of pesticide residues and heavy metals each year through its Agricultural Product Safety Analysis Laboratory. The center continues to expand its analysis services to ensure the safe supply of food, covering eco-friendly agricultural products, GAP-certified products, as well as local food and agricultural products for public meal services.

County Governor Choi Youngil said, "Achieving excellent results in international assessments for two consecutive years is a significant accomplishment," adding, "We will continue to do our utmost to enhance the safety of Sunchang's agricultural products and ensure that consumers can purchase them with confidence, based on our trusted analytical capabilities."