The Korea Agricultural Technology Agency is strengthening the quality and safety management of agricultural microorganisms produced at agricultural technology centers in the Jeonnam region. After inspecting 75 samples of microbial culture solutions, the agency is providing tailored technical support to six cities and counties, including Muan, Damyang, Haenam, Goheung, Boseong, and Yeongam.
On August 26, the agency announced that it had collaborated with the Jeonnam Agricultural Research Institute to inspect the production sites of agricultural microorganisms at six agricultural technology centers in the region.
Agricultural microorganisms are used to promote crop growth, improve soil quality, and reduce odors in livestock farming. As local agricultural technology centers increasingly supply beneficial microorganisms they cultivate directly to farmers, maintaining consistent quality from production to storage and distribution has become crucial.
Before providing on-site support, the agency tested the quality and safety of 75 microbial culture solutions produced by 19 agricultural technology centers in Jeonnam. The results showed that the main microbial counts and the presence of harmful microorganisms, such as Salmonella and enterohemorrhagic E. coli, were generally well managed.
Based on the inspection results, the agency evaluated equipment management, quality assurance of raw materials like starter cultures, and contamination prevention measures in the production and distribution processes at the six cities and counties. It also reviewed the self-quality inspection methods and product registration and labeling in accordance with relevant regulations, tailored to local conditions.
The agency provided guidance on management strategies to maintain current quality levels while preventing contamination and supported the agricultural technology centers with necessary technologies, including starter culture management and on-site demonstrations.
Since 2024, the agency has been conducting a quality management project for agricultural microorganisms in collaboration with the Jeonnam Agricultural Research Institute, and it plans to continue support based on testing and analysis data tailored to local production conditions. The agency also aims to expand its cooperation with local rural development organizations.
Lee Seok-hyung, the head of the agency, stated, “To ensure a stable supply of living microorganisms, meticulous management is required throughout the entire process from production to distribution. Based on the agency's analytical expertise, we will create an environment where farmers can experience the benefits of microorganisms and trust in their effectiveness.”
* This article has been translated by AI.
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