Plant Health Laboratory promotes food safety and more competitive agriculture, says António Ventura - Communication

Secretaria Regional da Agricultura e Alimentação

The Regional Plant Health Laboratory (LRSV) is establishing itself as a key player in the modernisation and safety of Azorean agriculture, according to the Regional Secretary for Agriculture and Food, António Ventura, who visited the facility today.

On that occasion, the government official highlighted the key role of the laboratory in preventing pests and diseases in the archipelago's crops.

"The laboratory tripled its research into pesticide residues in plant-based products in 2025 alone," which represents a clear reinforcement of quality control and food safety in regional production, defended António Ventura.

In five years, the number of harmful organisms analysed rose from 64 to 99, a development that also reflects greater awareness and commitment on the part of farmers.

"These figures reveal a desire to do better and produce responsibly. This means greater productivity, sustainability and profitability," stated António Ventura.

The government official believes that the Azores are prepared to significantly increase local production and reduce dependence on external sources over the next ten years.

Supervised by the Regional Directorate for Agriculture, Veterinary and Food (DRAVA), the LRSV currently consists of 27 plant health inspectors spread across all the islands. Their mission ranges from detecting pests and diseases to analysing soil, plant or insect samples from farmers, cooperatives, and public and private entities.

With various scientific areas of expertise – from bacteriology to virology – the laboratory has been officially recognised by the Directorate-General for Food and Veterinary Affairs (DGAV) since 2016 as an authority in the fight against plant pests.

The information collected is uploaded to a digital platform managed by DGAV, which centralises data from inspections and surveys conducted on professional operators.

In addition to its technical component, the laboratory has developed collaborations with the National Institute for Agricultural and Veterinary Research (INIAV), promoting training and joint actions that contribute to improving scientific responses to new agricultural challenges.

“The Plant Health Laboratory is strategic not only for our agriculture but also for public health, the environment and our economy,” emphasised the Regional Secretary.

He concluded: “It is based on this work that we are projecting the Azores towards a more innovative, competitive and sustainable agriculture.”