Kantonales Labor Zürich

The Kantonales Labor Zürich (Cantonal Laboratory of Zürich) plays a central role in ensuring food safety and product protection in the Canton of Zürich. It is concerned with the comprehensive inspection of foodstuffs, consumer goods, drinking and bathing water, and chemicals. Every day, the laboratory works to ensure that citizens can live safely and without worry. As the responsible authority, the Cantonal Laboratory inspects food businesses unannounced and, through follow-up checks, ensures that all regulations are complied with. These checks are particularly important, as they ensure that food is fit for consumption and poses no health risks. In addition, the laboratory carries out market surveillance of chemicals. Here it is checked whether the products comply with the applicable legal requirements, in particular regarding packaging and labeling. These measures help to identify harmful ingredients and to prevent unsafe products from entering the market. Another important task of the Cantonal Laboratory is monitoring bathing water quality. At least once per season, the quality of 200 indoor and outdoor pools as well as bathing spots on rivers and lakes is tested. This serves to protect the health of bathers and ensures that the water quality meets the legal requirements. The experts of the Cantonal Laboratory work closely with various authorities in order to ensure coordination in the area of chemical safety. Comprehensive information and education of businesses about chemicals legislation is another important goal of the laboratory, in order to ensure that all requirements are clearly communicated. This strong oversight ensures that the handling of chemicals is managed safely and responsibly. With its comprehensive expertise, the Cantonal Laboratory actively contributes to health promotion and the safety of the population in the Canton of Zürich.