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Dubai unveils automated technology to test oils, fats in 2 minutes instead of 2 hours
It analyses samples automatically without human intervention, detects early signs of oil and fat oxidation, and boosts daily testing capacity by 900%, from six to 60 samples
- PUBLISHED: Mon 24 Aug 2026, 4:26 PM
A new automated technology has cut the time needed to test the quality of oils and fats from two hours to just two minutes, while increasing daily testing capacity tenfold.
Introduced at Dubai Central Laboratory, the technology allows samples to be analysed automatically without human intervention. It also helps detect early indicators linked to the oxidation and quality of oils and fats during manufacturing and storage.
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The system has increased the laboratory’s daily testing capacity by 900 per cent, from six samples to 60, allowing a greater volume of samples to be processed more efficiently.
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It automatically generates results while maintaining the accuracy and reliability required to meet international standards. This enables potential quality issues to be identified more quickly and strengthens food safety monitoring.
The technology also supports greener laboratory practices by eliminating the chemical consumables required by conventional testing methods, reducing resource use and the environmental impact of laboratory operations.
Hind Mahmoud Ahmed, Director of the Dubai Central Laboratory Department at Dubai Municipality, said the technology would enhance the speed and efficiency of laboratory testing while maintaining the accuracy needed to support food safety and consumer protection.
“By increasing testing capacity and enabling faster analysis, we can strengthen proactive regulatory processes and respond more efficiently to developments within the food manufacturing sector,” she said.
She added that the technology would help strengthen consumer confidence in the safety and quality of food products available in Dubai by allowing authorities to identify potential quality issues more rapidly and ensure compliance with approved international standards and specifications.
The development comes as Dubai expands its food safety testing capabilities. Earlier this year, Dubai Municipality launched the UAE’s first laboratory dedicated to detecting foodborne viruses. The ViruGenetics Lab at Dubai Central Laboratory uses genomic technologies to process around 60 samples a day under normal conditions, with capacity to increase to 100 samples during emergencies.
The laboratory can analyse complex food samples, including dairy products, seafood, juices and fresh produce, while maintaining accuracy in the presence of substances that can interfere with conventional testing. Its procedures are conducted in accordance with ISO/IEC 17025 standards.
Azza Al Ali is a reporter from Ras Al Khaimah, dedicated to sharing stories that bring the community’s voices to life. She’s passionate about connecting with people and highlighting what truly matters to them.