Global Pesticide Residue Testing Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)
By Type;
Herbicides, Insecticides, Fungicides, and Others (Acaricides, Nematicides, Rodenticides, and Disinfectants).By Technology;
LC-MS/GC-MS, HPCL, Gas Chromatography, and Other Technologies (Immunoassay).By Food Tested;
Meat & Poultry, Dairy Products, Processed Foods, Fruits & Vegetables, and Other(Cereals & Grains, Nuts, Seeds & Spices, and Food Additives).By Class;
Organochlorines, Organophosphates, Organonitrogens & Carbamates, and Others (Pyrethroids And Fumigants).By Geography;
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, and Latin America - Report Timeline (2021 - 2031).Introduction
Global Pesticide Residue Testing Market (USD Million), 2021 - 2031
In the year 2024, the Global Pesticide Residue Testing Market was valued at USD 1,627.04 million. The size of this market is expected to increase to USD 2,545.07 million by the year 2031, while growing at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 6.6%.
The global pesticide residue testing market has become an integral part of ensuring food safety, driven by growing consumer awareness, stringent regulatory frameworks, and the increasing globalization of food trade. Pesticide residues, which are trace amounts of chemicals left in or on food after agricultural treatments, have raised significant concerns over their potential health risks, environmental impacts, and effects on biodiversity.
This concern has driven the demand for robust testing methods to detect, quantify, and regulate residue levels in food products. Pesticide residue testing involves the application of advanced technologies and methodologies, ensuring that food complies with maximum residue limits (MRLs) established by regulatory authorities like the US FDA, EFSA, and Codex Alimentarius. The market is propelled by a combination of factors, including the rising consumption of processed foods, increased agricultural productivity demands, and growing emphasis on export-quality compliance in food trade.
Modern testing techniques such as LC-MS/GC-MS, HPCL, and gas chromatography have revolutionized the industry, offering precise and reliable results. These methods can detect minute residue quantities, ensuring stringent quality control. The expansion of pesticide residue testing technologies has not only addressed food safety but also provided opportunities for advancements in organic farming and eco-friendly agricultural practices. Developing regions, particularly in Asia-Pacific, are emerging as significant players in the market, supported by increased agricultural exports and growing awareness of food safety standards. However, the market faces challenges such as high testing costs, lack of standardized procedures across regions, and technological limitations in resource-constrained areas.
Global Pesticide Residue Testing Market Recent Developments
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In February 2021, the pesticide residue testing market saw technological innovations with enhanced screening capabilities, reducing analysis time and improving accuracy for large,scale agricultural production.
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In April 2024, demand for pesticide residue testing services increased with the growing concern over food safety and stricter regulatory requirements globally, particularly in Europe and North America.
Segment Analysis
The Global Pesticide Residue Testing Market has been segmented by Type, Technology, Food Tested, Class, and Geography, Herbicides, Insecticides, Fungicides, and Others (including acaricides, nematicides, rodenticides, and disinfectants). Herbicides and insecticides dominate the market, primarily due to their widespread use in modern agricultural practices. However, the rising popularity of biopesticides and the increasing awareness of pesticide overuse are gradually shifting demand towards more targeted pesticide classes. By Technology, the market is divided into advanced testing technologies, such as LC-MS/GC-MS, HPCL, Gas Chromatography, and Other Technologies like immunoassay and test kits. Among these, LC-MS/GC-MS technologies are the most commonly used due to their high sensitivity and ability to detect even trace amounts of pesticide residues in complex food matrices.
These technologies ensure that food safety standards are met and regulatory requirements are adhered to. Gas chromatography remains popular for pesticide residue analysis due to its cost-effectiveness and reliable results. The growing demand for high-throughput testing is also driving innovations in rapid testing technologies, such as immunoassays. When considering Food Tested, the market is divided into Meat & Poultry, Dairy Products, Processed Foods, Fruits & Vegetables, and Other Food Tested (cereals & grains, nuts, seeds & spices, and food additives). Fruits and vegetables account for a significant portion of the market due to their high vulnerability to pesticide contamination during cultivation.
Processed foods are also seeing increased demand for residue testing, particularly as consumers demand transparency about the origin and treatment of ingredients in packaged goods. The dairy and meat sectors also require stringent testing due to concerns about bioaccumulation of pesticide residues in animals. Organophosphates and carbamates remain the most widely tested pesticide classes, as they are used extensively in agricultural practices but are also the most hazardous in terms of toxicity. Regulatory authorities focus heavily on monitoring and controlling these substances due to their harmful effects on human health and the environment. As global regulations around pesticide use continue to tighten, these traditional classes are being replaced with less toxic and more environmentally friendly options.
Global Pesticide Residue Testing Segment Analysis
In this report, the Global Pesticide Residue Testing Market has been segmented by Type, Technology, Food Tested, Class, and Geography.
Global Pesticide Residue Testing Market, Segmentation by Type
The Global Pesticide Residue Testing Market has been segmented by Type into Herbicides, Insecticides, Fungicides, and Others (Acaricides, Nematicides, Rodenticides, and Disinfectants).
Herbicides, Insecticides, Fungicides, and Others (including acaricides, nematicides, rodenticides, and disinfectants). Each of these pesticide types presents unique challenges and testing needs for both agricultural producers and regulatory authorities. Herbicides dominate the pesticide residue testing market as they are widely used to control unwanted weeds that compete with crops for nutrients and water. However, the high usage of herbicides has raised concerns about their potential to remain on food products, which has intensified the demand for testing services. Insecticides, another significant category, are used to protect crops from a range of insect pests that can cause significant damage.
These chemicals, however, are often persistent and can be toxic to humans and animals if consumed in large quantities, driving the need for regular residue testing. Fungicides are used to prevent or control fungal infections in crops, and while they are essential for agricultural productivity, they often leave residues on harvested products, which need monitoring to meet food safety standards. The category of Others includes a range of specialized pesticides such as acaricides, which target mites; nematicides, used against nematodes; rodenticides, which control rodents; and disinfectants, which are used in food processing and storage. These less common pesticide types still require residue testing, particularly in specific food items like processed foods and animal products. With increasing agricultural production and a growing emphasis on food safety, testing for pesticide residues across all these pesticide types has become a critical element of global food quality assurance and regulatory compliance.
Global Pesticide Residue Testing Market, Segmentation by Technology
The Global Pesticide Residue Testing Market has been segmented by Technology into LC-MS/GC-MS, HPCL, Gas Chromatography, and Other Technologies (Immunoassay).
The technology used in pesticide residue testing plays a vital role in the accuracy, speed, and cost-effectiveness of detecting residues in food products. The market is segmented into several cutting-edge technologies, including LC-MS/GC-MS, HPCL, Gas Chromatography, and other technologies like immunoassays and test kits. LC-MS (Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry) and GC-MS (Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry) are the gold standard for pesticide residue testing due to their high sensitivity and ability to identify even trace amounts of chemicals in complex food matrices. These technologies are especially favored for detecting multiple pesticide residues in a single test, making them invaluable for ensuring compliance with stringent food safety regulations in various regions.
HPCL (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography) is another common method used for pesticide residue testing due to its precision and reliability, particularly for separating and quantifying pesticide components. Gas Chromatography is also widely employed for pesticide analysis because of its ability to separate volatile and semi-volatile compounds effectively, which is crucial in detecting various classes of pesticides. Additionally, immunoassay technologies, such as ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay), and other test kits are becoming more popular in the market due to their affordability, speed, and ease of use, particularly for routine screening in field settings or food processing plants. While these technologies may not be as sensitive as LC-MS/GC-MS, they provide a cost-effective solution for initial screening, making them valuable for large-scale operations. The development of advanced testing technologies has significantly enhanced the ability to ensure that food products meet regulatory standards for pesticide residue, thereby supporting the increasing demand for accurate and timely testing solutions in the food industry.
Global Pesticide Residue Testing Market, Segmentation by Food Tested
The Global Pesticide Residue Testing Market has been segmented by Food Tested into Meat & Poultry, Dairy Products, Processed Foods, Fruits & Vegetables, and Other (Cereals & Grains, Nuts, Seeds & Spices, aand Food Additives).
Fruits and vegetables account for the largest share of the market due to their high susceptibility to pesticide contamination during cultivation and post-harvest handling. As a result, regulatory authorities around the world impose strict limits on pesticide residues in these food products, creating a strong demand for testing services. Processed foods, which include packaged items that may contain a variety of ingredients, also require thorough testing to ensure that no pesticide residues remain after processing. These foods often contain a mixture of raw ingredients, some of which may come from regions with different pesticide regulations, creating a complex testing environment.
Meat and poultry require testing due to the potential bioaccumulation of pesticides in animal tissues, especially since some pesticides used in animal feed or on crops consumed by livestock can persist in animal products. The dairy products category also faces similar concerns as chemicals can accumulate in milk and dairy products from treated animals, making testing essential to meet food safety regulations. Additionally, other food items like cereals, grains, nuts, seeds, spices, and food additives are tested for pesticide residues due to the increasing global trade and the need for compliance with food safety standards in the export market. As consumer awareness of pesticide residue risks grows and regulatory pressures increase, the demand for comprehensive pesticide residue testing across all food categories continues to rise, ensuring that all food products are safe for consumption.
Global Pesticide Residue Testing Market, Segmentation by Class
The Global Pesticide Residue Testing Market has been segmented by Class into Organochlorines, Organophosphates, Organonitrogens & Carbamates, and Others (Pyrethroids and Fumigants).
The class segmentation of the global pesticide residue testing market focuses on the different classes of pesticides used in agricultural practices and their potential residues found in food. This market is categorized into Organochlorines, Organophosphates, Organonitrogens & Carbamates, and Others (including pyrethroids and fumigants). Organochlorines are among the most widely tested classes due to their persistence in the environment and the potential for accumulation in the food chain. While many organochlorines have been banned in several countries, their residues can still be found in older agricultural products or in areas where illegal pesticide use persists. Organophosphates, a more common class, are extensively used for pest control in various crops but have raised concerns due to their toxicity and potential health effects.
As a result, regulatory agencies heavily monitor the residue levels of organophosphates in food, making them a major focus of testing efforts. Organonitrogens & Carbamates are another significant class of pesticides used in agriculture, and while they are generally less toxic than organophosphates, their residues are still subject to scrutiny due to their potential environmental impact and toxicity at high exposure levels. Finally, Others, including pyrethroids and fumigants, are also tested for residues, particularly since pyrethroids are commonly used in residential and agricultural settings, while fumigants are applied to control pests in stored grains and other products. The varied nature of pesticide classes used across different regions and crops creates a broad testing market that requires highly specialized methods to detect residues and ensure compliance with increasingly strict food safety standards. Each of these pesticide classes presents unique challenges in terms of persistence, toxicity, and detection, driving ongoing demand for advanced residue testing solutions.
Global Pesticide Residue Testing Market, Segmentation by Geography
In this report, the Global Pesticide Residue Testing Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, and Latin America.
Global Pesticide Residue Testing Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024
The global pesticide residue testing market is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing awareness of food safety, regulatory requirements, and the demand for high-quality, pesticide-free products. Geographically, the market share is divided into regions such as North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa, each contributing differently based on local regulations and consumer preferences.
North America holds a substantial share of the pesticide residue testing market, driven by stringent food safety regulations, particularly in the United States and Canada. Government agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) enforce strict guidelines for pesticide levels in food, thereby driving the demand for regular testing in the region. This region's focus on organic farming and increasing consumer awareness of the risks associated with pesticide residues are also contributing to the market's growth.
Europe is another significant region in the pesticide residue testing market, with strict regulatory frameworks like the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) setting limits on pesticide residues in food and water. The demand for pesticide residue testing in Europe is further amplified by the growing preference for organic products among consumers and the increasing implementation of sustainable agricultural practices. The European market is expected to continue expanding, driven by regulations and rising consumer demand for safe, pesticide-free food. Meanwhile, the Asia-Pacific region is witnessing rapid growth in the pesticide residue testing market due to increasing agricultural production and growing concerns over food safety. Countries such as China, India, and Japan are investing in testing technologies to ensure food safety standards are met for both domestic consumption and export markets.
Market Trends
This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Pesticide Residue Testing Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.
Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis
Drivers
- Increasing public awareness about the health risks associated with pesticide residues
- Strict government regulations and food safety standards
- Advancements in testing technologies providing more accurate and cost-effective solutions
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Growing demand for organic and pesticide-free food products - As consumers become more conscious about the potential health risks associated with pesticide consumption, there has been a noticeable shift in preferences towards organic food. Organic products, which are cultivated without the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, are perceived as healthier alternatives. This shift is driven by increasing awareness of the long-term effects of pesticide exposure, including cancer risks, developmental issues, and hormone disruptions. Furthermore, as people become more informed about the environmental impact of conventional farming, there is an increasing emphasis on sustainable agriculture practices.
This growing demand for organic and pesticide-free food products, combined with heightened regulatory scrutiny, presents significant opportunities for the pesticide residue testing industry. As consumers continue to prioritize healthier, cleaner food choices, the testing market is expected to grow substantially. The emphasis on food safety and organic certifications will lead to an increased reliance on advanced testing technologies that can detect even trace amounts of pesticide residues, ensuring that food producers meet consumer expectations and global standards.
Restraints
- Complexity in meeting diverse global regulatory standards
- Limited access to testing facilities in developing regions
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Time-consuming nature of some testing procedures - While pesticide residue testing is essential for ensuring food safety, one of the primary challenges in the market is the time-consuming nature of some testing procedures. Pesticide residue testing involves multiple complex steps, such as sample collection, preparation, analysis, and reporting. These procedures require highly specialized equipment and technical expertise to ensure that the results are accurate and reliable. The time it takes to complete a full pesticide residue analysis can sometimes range from several hours to several days, depending on the complexity of the testing method and the type of food being tested.
Testing methods like LC-MS/GC-MS and Gas Chromatography are highly effective in detecting pesticide residues, but they can be quite time-intensive due to the intricate preparation steps required to isolate and prepare food samples. For instance, in many cases, food samples need to undergo a series of extraction processes to separate the pesticide residues from the food matrix before they can be analyzed. This can lead to significant delays in receiving test results, which can be a problem for both food producers and regulatory authorities.
Opportunities
- Technological innovations in rapid testing methods
- Growth in demand for pesticide-free and organic food products
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Strategic partnerships between testing companies and food manufacturers - Strategic partnerships between pesticide residue testing companies and food manufacturers represent a key opportunity for both industries to collaborate and address the growing demand for food safety and quality assurance. These partnerships create synergies that can help streamline the testing process, improve efficiency, reduce costs, and ensure compliance with food safety regulations. By joining forces, testing companies and food manufacturers can leverage each other’s strengths, resulting in mutually beneficial outcomes for both parties.
Testing companies, on the other hand, benefit from such partnerships by establishing long-term relationships with food manufacturers, creating a steady stream of business and revenue. Strategic collaborations allow testing companies to enhance their testing methods to meet the specific needs of food manufacturers. For example, testing companies may customize their services to cater to the unique challenges posed by different types of food products, ensuring that the testing methods are optimized for accuracy and efficiency. These partnerships also allow testing companies to innovate and develop new technologies and solutions to meet the increasingly complex and diverse demands of the food industry.
Competitive Landscape Analysis
Key players in Global Pesticide Residue Testing Market include:
- Eurofins Scientific SE
- Bureau Veritas S.A.
- SGS S.A.
- Intertek Group plc
- Silliker, Inc.
- ALS Limited
- Mérieux NutriSciences
- QIMA
- Fera Science Ltd.
- Covance
In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:
- Company Overview and Product Portfolio
- Key Developments
- Financial Overview
- Strategies
- Company SWOT Analysis
- Introduction
- Research Objectives and Assumptions
- Research Methodology
- Abbreviations
- Market Definition & Study Scope
- Executive Summary
- Market Snapshot, By Type
- Market Snapshot, By Technology
- Market Snapshot, By Food Tested
- Market Snapshot, By Class
- Market Snapshot, By Region
- Global Pesticide Residue Testing Market Dynamics
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Drivers
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Increasing public awareness about the health risks associated with pesticide residues
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Strict government regulations and food safety standards
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Advancements in testing technologies providing more accurate and cost-effective solutions
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Growing demand for organic and pesticide-free food products
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- Restraints
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Complexity in meeting diverse global regulatory standards
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Limited access to testing facilities in developing regions
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Time-consuming nature of some testing procedures
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- Opportunities
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Technological innovations in rapid testing methods
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Growth in demand for pesticide-free and organic food products
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Strategic partnerships between testing companies and food manufacturers
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- Drivers
- PEST Analysis
- Political Analysis
- Economic Analysis
- Social Analysis
- Technological Analysis
- Porter's Analysis
- Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- Bargaining Power of Buyers
- Threat of Substitutes
- Threat of New Entrants
- Competitive Rivalry
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Market Segmentation
- Global Pesticide Residue Testing Market, By Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
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Herbicides
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Insecticides
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Fungicides
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Others
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Acaricides
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Nematicides
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Rodenticides
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Disinfectants
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- Global Pesticide Residue Testing Market, By Technology, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
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LC-MS/GC-MS
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HPCL
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Gas Chromatography
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Other Technologies
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Immunoassay
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- Global Pesticide Residue Testing Market, By Food Tested, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
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Meat & Poultry
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Dairy Products
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Processed Foods
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Fruits & Vegetables
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Other
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Cereals & Grains
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Nuts
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Seeds & Spices
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Food Additives
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- Global Pesticide Residue Testing Market, By Class, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
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Organochlorines
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Organophosphates
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Organonitrogens & Carbamates
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Others
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Pyrethroids
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Fumigants
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- Global Pesticide Residue Testing Market, By Geography, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- North America
- United States
- Canada
- Europe
- Germany
- United Kingdom
- France
- Italy
- Spain
- Nordic
- Benelux
- Rest of Europe
- Asia Pacific
- Japan
- China
- India
- Australia & New Zealand
- South Korea
- ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Countries)
- Rest of Asia Pacific
- Middle East & Africa
- GCC
- Israel
- South Africa
- Rest of Middle East & Africa
- Latin America
- Brazil
- Mexico
- Argentina
- Rest of Latin America
- North America
- Global Pesticide Residue Testing Market, By Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Competitive Landscape
- Company Profiles
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Eurofins Scientific SE
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Bureau Veritas S.A.
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SGS S.A.
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Intertek Group plc
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Silliker, Inc.
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ALS Limited
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Mérieux NutriSciences
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QIMA
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Fera Science Ltd.
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Covance
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- Company Profiles
- Analyst Views
- Future Outlook of the Market