Master of Physics Program Collaborates with BBPOM Aceh to Develop Food Contaminant Detection Tools

Banda Aceh, April 30, 2025 – The Master of Physics Program at Syiah Kuala University (USK) established a strategic collaboration with the Aceh Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BBPOM) to develop contaminant detection instruments in food and beverages. This collaboration was marked by the official visit of the Master of Physics team to the Aceh BBPOM office.

The team from the Master of Physics who attended the visit consisted of Dr. Syukri Surbakti, S.Si., M.Si. and Zakaria, S.Si., M.Si., along with two master program students, Qairisman and Shohibul. They were welcomed by the Head of BBPOM Aceh, Yudi Noviandi, M.Sc.Tech., Apt. and technical staff.

The main focus of this collaboration is developing a physics-based instrumentation tool to detect the presence of harmful substances such as borax, formalin and rhodamin B in food directly and quickly. This tool is designed to provide real-time detection results, facilitate monitoring, and accelerate preventive action against food unsafe for consumption.

Dr. Syukri Surbakti, S.Si., M.Si., a lecturer of Master of Physics and team representative in this activity, said, “This collaboration is a form of real contribution from USK Master of Physics in supporting national food security. With a scientific approach and appropriate technology, we hope that the tools developed can help BBPOM in conducting early detection of dangerous contaminants, as well as being a learning medium for our students to be directly involved in solving real societal problems.”

This collaboration is in the form of applied research and community service. The utilization of physics technology in food quality control is expected to improve public health protection and strengthen the role of academics in supporting the national food safety program.

This activity aligns with Syiah Kuala University’s spirit to continue to have a real impact on society through innovation, research and cross-sector collaboration.