The Government Laboratory offers a comprehensive range of analytical and advisory services to support the Government in upholding its various commitments in the protection of public health.

    In 2002, a total of 80 201 tests on a wide range of food samples were carried out for surveillance and for compliance with the statutory standards. Further to the enactment of the Public Health (Animals and Birds) (Chemical Residues) Regulation and the concurrent amendments to the Harmful Substances in Food Regulations, the Laboratory established a new section in April to focus on the testing of chemical residues in food animal products and live food animals for surveillance and statutory purposes. The Laboratory has also been actively involved in technological exchanges with Mainland counterparts with a view to strengthening technical capabilities in ensuring food safety and protecting public health.

    The Laboratory has continued to provide a comprehensive analytical service to ensure the quality of Western and Chinese medicines that constitute an indispensable part of the health care system. In 2002, 39 567 tests were carried out on Western pharmaceutical products for compliance with the international or other acceptable standards in quality and safety; and 41 481 tests were made on proprietary Chinese medicines and herbal medicines for their heavy metal and pesticide residue content, and adulteration with Western drugs or controlled substances. In addition, the Laboratory undertook method development and research work pertaining to the examination of toxic Chinese herbal medicines.

    The Laboratory sustained the year-round surveillance of tar and nicotine yield in cigarettes, with results published for public information and affirmation of the data declared by tobacco traders.