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 2004, 115 473 tests on a wide range of food samples were carried out for surveillance and for verifying compliance with the statutory standards. Upon the enforcement of the final phase of the Public Health (Animals and Birds) (Chemical Residues) Regulation and the Harmful Substances in Food Regulations at the end of 2003, a full range of analytical support was provided for the testing of veterinary drug residues in food animal products and live food animals for surveillance and statutory purposes. With the ever-increasing concern on food safety, the Laboratory has rendered urgent analytical services on various ad hoc issues during the year. Enhanced analytical support was provided to reinforce the existing food surveillance programme.

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 2004, 41 832 tests were carried out on western pharmaceutical products for compliance with the international or other acceptable standards in quality and safety. At the same time, 65 748 tests were conducted on proprietary Chinese medicines and herbal medicines for their heavy metal and pesticide residue content, and for the detection of adulteration with western drugs or controlled substances. In addition, the Laboratory provided full support to the increasing number of investigations on cases of adverse reaction or intoxication incidents related to Chinese medicines, such as the testing for aristolochic acid and ephedrine alkaloids. Active participation was sustained in the development of the regulatory standards for Chinese medicinal herbs in the HKSAR.

The Laboratory has also continued to support the year-round surveillance of tar and nicotine yields in cigarettes. Throughout the year, some 12 000 tests were conducted, with results published in the league table for public information and affirmation of the yields declared by the tobacco manufacturers.