During the event, discussions focused on the technical specifications for raw materials and finished products, the requirements for full traceability, the dynamics of exports in recent years, and the importance of adapting products to the demands of premium markets.

The workshop was also attended by Mr. Sergiu Paiu, Head of the Agro-Food Products Testing Laboratory, who emphasized that maintaining product quality and safety is a continuous process, supporting both local consumer trust and access to international markets with high standards. In this regard, periodic monitoring and product compliance verification play an important role in strengthening producers’ reputation and ensuring their long-term competitiveness.

The program included both theoretical sessions and practical presentations on modern packaging and labeling methods, showcasing effective ways to give the final product a uniform, attractive appearance tailored to the requirements of different markets.

We were pleased to take an active part in this meeting, which brought together expertise, experience, and concrete solutions for the development of the sector. Such dialogue platforms provide producers with the opportunity to better understand market requirements, identify development directions, and build valuable partnerships. We encourage all producers to take advantage of these opportunities, to invest in quality, innovation, and standardization, and to ensure that their products consistently meet safety and compliance requirements – including through laboratory testing, which guarantees quality and supports access to new markets. These actions, combined with a well-thought-out promotion strategy, can open new sales markets and strengthen Moldova’s position in the premium dried fruit segment.

Certification of this management system provides official recognition for organizations that demonstrate control over risks and hazards that may affect food safety, complying with the requirements of the standard and applicable regulations.

What is ISO 22000?

ISO 22000 is an internationally recognized standard dedicated to food safety management. It sets out the requirements for organizing, documenting, and maintaining a control system that ensures food safety at all stages of the food chain. Key elements include:

• defining the scope, terms, and normative references;
• top management commitment and communication at all levels;
• implementation of prerequisite programs (PRPs) and a traceability system;
• hazard analysis and application of HACCP principles;
• monitoring and periodic review of system performance.

Why is ISO 22000 certification important?

Certifying a food safety management system in accordance with ISO 22000 ensures recognition of compliance with international best practices and demonstrates the organization’s commitment to product safety. Benefits include:

• compliance with legal regulations and applicable standards;
• increased confidence from customers and authorities;
• facilitated cooperation with domestic and international partners;
• strengthened reputation on the target market.

The certification process with the State Enterprise CMAC

The Management Systems Certification Body within the State Enterprise CMAC carries out evaluation and certification activities for food safety management systems, in accordance with the requirements of ISO 22000:2018. The certification process includes:

• certification, which involves information sessions, document review, auditing, and follow-up on nonconformities;
• pre-audit activities, aimed at determining the organization’s readiness for evaluation;
• second- and third-party audits conducted according to other applicable standards or regulations;
• added value during evaluation and surveillance visits by identifying improvement opportunities.

The activity is carried out according to transparent procedures, by competent personnel, and in compliance with principles of impartiality and confidentiality.

Conclusion

The Management Systems Certification Body within the State Enterprise CMAC supports organizations seeking ISO 22000 certification by providing rigorous and objective evaluations in accordance with international standards.

Additional information:

Management Systems Certification Body

Seminar: What You Will Learn About the Food Safety Management System According to SM EN ISO 22000:2018

ISO 22000 – Food Safety Management System: what it is, who needs it, and how to obtain certification

What steps can you take?

1. Check the product label According to Law no. 279/2017 on consumer information regarding food products, the label must include essential information: product name, list of ingredients, minimum durability date or expiration date, storage conditions, and the contact details of the producer or distributor.
2. Contact the seller or producer Ask for clarification if you notice non-compliances or have doubts regarding the product’s appearance, smell, or expiration date. In some cases, the issue can be resolved directly through replacement or refund.
3. Contact the competent authorities If the product still raises questions, you can file a complaint with the National Food Safety Agency (ANSA) or the Consumer Protection and Market Surveillance Agency. These institutions are authorized to investigate complaints and, if necessary, request testing of the suspected products.

Why are laboratory tests important for consumers too?

Laboratory testing is often associated with the responsibilities of producers, processors, or distributors. However, such testing is also directly relevant for consumers, especially when food safety concerns arise.

An informed consumer has the right and the option to request or carry out, through specialized laboratories, analyses to verify whether a product complies with quality and safety standards. These tests can:

• Detect contaminants (bacteria, molds, heavy metals, pesticide residues);
• Confirm or refute suspicions regarding freshness or composition;
• Support complaints submitted to authorities with objective data.

For consumers, access to such testing can provide real protection, especially in cases where there are no clear answers from the seller or producer.

Accredited laboratories, such as the Agro-Food Product Testing Laboratory within the State Enterprise CMAC, can provide testing services that comply with national and international standards, and the results can be used even in official investigations.

Conclusion

If you have concerns about a food product, do not ignore the signs. Check the label, ask for clarifications, and if necessary, contact the authorities or turn to an accredited laboratory for additional testing.

Laboratory tests are not reserved only for businesses – they can also serve as a practical tool for consumers to ensure the food they purchase is safe to eat.

Find out more:

About the Agro-Food Product Testing Laboratory

Consumer protection: How do laboratory tests ensure food safety?

Interview with Sergiu Paiu, Head of the Agro-Food Product Testing Laboratory

Why is this verification important?

Medical devices are used daily for diagnosis, treatment, or monitoring. Deviations from accepted parameters can lead to:

• errors in diagnosis and treatment;
• incorrect clinical decisions;
• unnecessary risks for patients;
• loss of trust in the medical system.

Timely verifications allow the identification and correction of deviations and help maintain the medical devices in optimal working condition.

The State Enterprise “Center for Applied Metrology and Certification” is accredited and officially recognized by the relevant Ministry to carry out inspection through periodic verification of medical devices, in accordance with national regulations. The activity is carried out by a Type A Inspection Body, ensuring impartiality, qualified personnel, and transparent procedures.

During the verification process, the compliance of medical devices with applicable normative documents or specific inspection procedures is evaluated, along with their reliability in use and their ability to deliver accurate results in clinical contexts.

Benefits for medical institutions

• Compliance with legal and regulatory requirements;
• Increased patient trust in medical services;
• Prevention of sanctions and legal disputes;
• Protection of medical personnel from risks related to the use of non-compliant devices.

Conclusion

Periodic verification of medical devices is not only a legal obligation but a necessary measure to protect the lives and health of patients as well as the safety of medical personnel who operate these devices. By working with accredited bodies, medical institutions actively contribute to maintaining a safe and efficient healthcare system.

Learn more:

Medical Device Verification Service

Interview with Ilie Pelin, Head of the Type A Inspection Body – Metrological Verifications and Medical Devices

Learn more about the State Enterprise CMAC

1. Preventing non-compliance before commercialization
   Laboratory testing allows for the rapid identification of deviations from the parameters set by standards and regulations, including the provisions of Law No. 279/2017 on consumer information regarding food products, Law No. 306/2018 on food safety, as well as Government Decisions applicable to various product categories. Thus, products can be withdrawn from the production process or adjusted before reaching the market, avoiding costly recalls or penalties due to non-compliance.
2. Meeting legal and contractual requirements
   Food industry standards impose clear limits regarding product composition, safety, and labeling. Results obtained from accredited laboratories provide producers with objective proof of quality and compliance – essential in the case of inspections or commercial disputes.
3. Protecting brand image and customer trust
   A properly tested product, accompanied by valid test reports, instills confidence in business partners, distributors, and end consumers. The absence of such tests may raise concerns, lead to commercial losses, or result in product withdrawal from shelves.
4. Minimizing economic and legal risks
   Laboratory testing helps avoid significant costs associated with:
   – serious non-compliance or safety incidents;
   – fines imposed by authorities;
   – complaints and product returns;
   – disputes with contractual partners.
5. Ensuring traceability and improving processes
   Results from laboratory testing provide valuable data for optimizing internal processes, adjusting recipes, revising technical sheets, or calibrating production equipment.

CMAC – a reliable partner for the agri-food industry
Testing conducted within the Agri-Food Product Testing Laboratory of the State Enterprise CMAC is performed under controlled conditions, using recognized methods and trained personnel. The results are recognized both nationally and internationally and can be used in interactions with regulatory authorities or contractual clients.

Conclusion
Laboratory testing is not just a formality, but a strategic step for any producer aiming to deliver safe, compliant, and competitive products. Choosing an accredited laboratory is key to preventing issues before they arise.

Related articles:

Agri-Food Product Testing Service

What to do if you have doubts about a food product’s safety? The importance of laboratory testing for consumers

Preventing non-compliance in the HoReCa sector: best practices for operators in the Republic of Moldova

ISO 9001 – The international standard for quality management

ISO 9001 certification confirms the implementation of an effective quality management system within the organization. It demonstrates the ability to consistently provide products and services that meet customer requirements, while also optimizing internal processes.

Benefits for producers:

• process standardization and reduction of operational errors;
• better organization of workflow;
• traceability at all stages – from procurement to delivery;
• increased competitiveness in the international market;
• greater trust from auditors and business partners.

ISO 22000 – Certification dedicated to food safety

For companies in the food industry, ISO 22000 provides a comprehensive approach to controlling risks that may affect food safety. This international standard combines HACCP principles with quality management requirements, offering a robust framework to ensure compliance.

Additional advantages of ISO 22000:

• proactive identification and control of hazards;
• implementation of practices compliant with national and international legislation;
• increased confidence from authorities, customers, and distributors;
• strengthened reputation and business stability in export markets.

The Management System Certification Body of the State Enterprise “Center for Applied Metrology and Certification” (CMAC) offers a clear, structured, and impartial process for assessing compliance with international standards. The activity is carried out under its own accredited management system, with qualified auditors, transparent methods, and an approach tailored to the specifics of each organization.

As an authority in the field of conformity assessment, CMAC supports local producers in their efforts to modernize internal processes and prepare for foreign markets.

Conclusion
In an increasingly demanding and interconnected economic environment, management system certification is a key pillar for companies seeking to strengthen their market position and ensure sustainable access to international markets. It provides a structured framework for improving internal processes, increasing partner trust, and aligning with globally recognized best practices. By choosing an accredited certification body such as CMAC, producers in the Republic of Moldova can confidently go through this process, gaining recognition and real support in their development efforts.

Additional information:

Management System Certification Body

ISO 22000 – Food Safety Management System: what it is, who needs it, and how to obtain certification?

How do laboratory tests help agri-food producers avoid risks and penalties?

This year’s ” Global Trade Measurements” has been chosen to raise awareness of the important role of measurement in facilitating fair global trade, ensuring product compliance with current rules and regulations and meeting customers’ expectations of quality.

The development of a universal measurement system has been of particular importance in society, being an essential part of its basic rules. Metrology has a major impact, allowing for facilitating trade, increasing the quality of products and services, increasing consumer confidence, public safety and health and environmental protection. Metrology plays an important role in the adoption of scientific and technological progress, in the design and efficiency of the production of goods, in accordance with the needs of consumers. As a result of the globalization trend of trade, investment and industrial production, the development of international standards for all types of goods and services and the impact of high technology in most sectors of the economy, metrology has reached a level of strategic importance, both in the economy and in society.

World Metrology Day is a recognition of the importance of the given field, but also an appreciation of the results of the professional activity of specialists in the field around the world. All aspects of life and the activities of modern society depend, to a certain extent, on the accuracy, uniformity and credibility of metrological measurements.

On the occasion of World Metrology Day we send to all metrologists and specialists in the field, who make a direct contribution in the process of implementing new technologies in the field of legal metrology, high appreciations, sincere congratulations, wishing you continuous professional achievements, perseverance and good thoughts. May the spirit of optimism and the certainty of coping with all challenges accompany you everywhere.