The Fragrances and Flavours Association of India (FAFAI) celebrated a momentous occasion, the 25th or Silver Jubilee Edition of the Biennial FAFAI International Expo and Convention, with great aplomb. At this dazzling event held in Kolkata, the FAFAI Research & Development Centre was unveiled, marking a significant milestone for the organization.
On the memorable day of May 7, 2023, Dr. Shrikant Eknath Shinde, Honourable Member of Parliament from Kalyan, Maharashtra, had the honour of formally inaugurating the R & D Centre. The event was graciously hosted by our esteemed office bearers, including Mr. Rishabh C. Kothari, President; Mr. Kedar Vaze, Vice President; Mr. Shyam Prabhu, Honorary Secretary; and Mr. Sanjay Harlalka, Honorary Joint Secretary. The entire program was curated and organized under the able guidance of Mr. Hitesh Mehta, Honorary Treasurer of FAFAI and the dedicated Project-in-charge of the FAFAI R & D Centre.
Dr. Shrikant Shinde, the Chief Guest, was deeply impressed by the state-of-the-art facilities at the FAFAI R & D Centre and expressed his unwavering support in all our endeavours. He emphasized the pivotal role of such advanced testing laboratories in the development of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), underscoring their importance in fostering growth and innovation within the industry.
FAFAI President, Mr. Rishabh C. Kothari, extended a warm and cordial welcome to all members, encouraging them to visit the newly established facility and make full use of its comprehensive range of services. Moreover, he took the opportunity to acknowledge the significant contribution of M/s. S.H. Kelkar & Company and honoured the company’s Chairman Mr. Ramesh Vaze, for their invaluable support in the establishment of this ground-breaking Centre.
FAFAI Vice President Mr. Kedar Vaze, stressed the criticality of testing Fragrances and Flavours (F & F) ingredients and finished products to ensure uncompromising quality, human safety, and environmental protection. He passionately highlighted the essential role which will be played by the FAFAI R & D Centre in providing crucial support to MSMEs seeking to access the international market. Proudly proclaiming the Centre as one of the pioneering comprehensive F & F testing laboratories in India, he emphasized its commitment to promoting excellence and delivering unmatched services.
The FAFAI Research & Development Centre stands as a testament to FAFAI’s unwavering dedication to the fragrance and flavour industry in India. Equipped with the latest equipment(s) and staffed by highly skilled professionals, the Centre is poised to become the driving force behind industry advancements, elevating India’s position in the global market.
True to FAFAI’s core values, the Centre guarantees strict confidentiality, impeccable accuracy, comprehensive lab-to-market support, global regulatory cooperation, and timely execution of services. Its diverse range of services encompasses the testing of F & F products for quality, human safety, and environmental impact.
The Centre’s services include a dedicated Quality Division, covering essential parameters such as pH, colour, refractive index, density, and optical rotation. The Analytical Division specializes in major peak identification, allergen testing, phthalate testing, and finished product testing. In addition, the Biodegradability Division conducts ready biodegradability testing according to OECD 301F standards, while the Safety Division offers assessments for skin irritation (OECD 493), skin corrosion (OECD 431), skin sensitization (OECD 442D), and eye irritation (OECD 491).
To access these state-of-the-art facilities and services, please reach out to us at lab@fafai.org. The FAFAI R&D Centre welcomes all industry members to embark on a journey of excellence, where unparalleled testing and unwavering commitment converge to shape the future of the fragrance and flavour industry.
Venue : Mumbai
Date 12th and 13th April 2025