Renewal of SERCLA accreditation reinforces confidence and strategic value of Azorean milk, says António Ventura - Communication

Secretaria Regional da Agricultura e Alimentação

The Azores Milk Classification Service (SERCLA) has had its accreditation renewed by the Portuguese Accreditation Institute (IPAC), a milestone that the Regional Secretary for Agriculture and Food, António Ventura, considers crucial to the strategy for promoting the Azorean milk sector.

“This renewal is a key step in promoting and consolidating regional production. In ensuring full compliance with the requirements of the international standard NP EN ISO/IEC 17025, we are providing the sector with a high level of scientific rigour, impartiality and traceability of analytical results,” he emphasised.

For António Ventura, SERCLA accreditation fosters trust throughout the value chain – producers, associations, industry and consumers – consolidating the credibility of Azorean milk in national and international markets.

"We are reinforcing the Azores' commitment to food safety and recognising the intrinsic excellence of a raw material that is unmatched by other geographical regions," he said.

The Regional Secretary also praised the professionalism of the SERCLA team and the fundamental role of the Azores Agricultural Federation in pursuing public policies to enhance and promote the sector.

For António Ventura, the milk industry goes beyond economic considerations: "Investing in the milk sector is about investing in the sustainability of our soil, water conservation, animal welfare and keeping young people on the nine islands of the archipelago," he defended.

The Secretary for Agriculture also highlighted the strategic role of milk in the Region's autonomy, stressing that "milk is a natural asset and a key pillar in ensuring food security in an outermost region spread across nine territories."

He continued: "Investing in innovation and competitiveness tools ensures that agriculture remains the driving force for the social and economic development of the Azores."

With this renewal, the Regional Government reiterates its determination to continue investing in tools and services that promote production excellence, ensuring that the quality of Azorean milk is recognised across the entire supply chain and valued as a strategic asset for regional identity and economy.