AgroPages-ALS Laboratories: Solutions for agrochemical and biological tests-Agricultural news

By Leonardo Gottems, Reporter for AgroPages

With over 25 years of expertise in studying agrochemicals, biological products and the like, ALS Laboratories ('ALS') has been consolidating itself as a reference for companies that need to register crop protection products in Brazil and other countries. Being regulated by Anvisa (National Health Surveillance Agency), MAPA (Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Supply) and IBAMA (Brazilian Institute of the Environment and Renewable Natural Resources), these phytosanitary products require studies accredited by CGCRE (General Coordination for Accreditation of the Inmetro) in “Good Laboratory Practices”. Since 2011, the OECD (Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development) has recognized CGCRE as part of the mutual cooperation agreement and this adherence allows the international acceptance of studies carried out in Brazil.

These studies set ALS apart and have physical-chemical, toxicological and ecotoxicological scope, with highly qualified technical professionals and an experienced commercial team. The laboratory is recognized by national and international institutions that certify the quality and traceability of its processes and services. We interviewed Charles Franco, Sales Manager of Food & Agro at ALS Laboratories.

What solutions do ALS Laboratories offer for testing agrochemicals and biological products?

ALS provides studies conducted in the Good Laboratory Practices for formulated products (chemical and biological) and technicians in accordance with internationally recognized standards, thus promoting accurate and reliable information for the registration submission process. We serve in the areas of physical chemistry, toxicology, ecotoxicology, and mutagenicity, including in vitro studies.

What are the differentials and advantages in relation to other market options?

They include a customized customer service system, possibility for clients to contact technicians directly for discussions and also to answer questions, in addition to a strongly implemented Quality Assurance System that guarantees the reliability and traceability of results.

We also have the only laboratory in Brazil with expertise in conducting studies with biological products; with over 10 years of experience, we conduct studies to assist regulatory agencies not only in Brazil, but in other countries as well, and international recognition, with more than 350 units in the world, and a presence in 65 countries.

Why is it essential to perform these tests?

These tests are part of the dossier that needs to be submitted to regulatory agencies to obtain the definitive registration of the product in order to be able to market it. The studies present important information to understand the impact of these products on the environment and human health.

What is the level of demand from regulators and the Brazilian market?

Increasingly, regulators are demanding more data and more accurate results. Over the past 10 years, we have seen an increase in the criticality of both government bodies and clients, thus continuously improving the process. The Brazilian market is increasingly looking for products that are less toxic, more efficient and with a lower application dose. There is a great deal of research among companies that manufacture and formulate these products to optimize the efficiency of agrochemicals.

How do you describe where your company is at now and your future plans?

ALS is going through great growth and expansion. With the new Resolution of the Collegiate Board (RDC) of ANVISA and the publication of the resolution of CONCEA (National Council for the Control of Animal Experimentation), ALS is prepared to use in vitro methods in their entirety, promoting animal welfare, besides being the only service provider laboratory that has an international accreditation in the animal welfare Association for Assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care (AAALAC).

We are increasing the laboratory's operational capacity and implementing new tests, and in the coming years, we will double our current capacity, always maintaining quality and excellence in the services provided and in customer service. We participate in national and international events. We are the reference laboratory in Latin America for conducting tests on biopesticides and agrochemicals.

For more information, please visit www.alsglobal.com or contact:

Charles Franco
Sales Manager of Food & Agro at ALS Laboratories
Tel: +55 11 93341 3669
Email: charles.franco@alsglobal.com