Selvarani Elahi takes over as Deputy Government Chemist

In addition to her new role, Elahi retains her current position as head of Consumer Protection Services at LGC, which has its headquarters in Teddington, Middlesex. Elahi has more than 20 years’ experience of the analysis of food and agriculture samples to establish their composition, particularly for contaminants, additives, nutrients and to assess their authenticity for both the private and public sectors.

Discharged on behalf of the UK department for Business, Innovation and Skills, the role of the Government Chemist is a State appointment, agreed under the devolved authorities of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Elahi said: ‘The Government Chemist function is fundamental to providing an independent voice for sound analytical measurement science and preventing miscarriages of justice. As well as resolving disputes, a key aspect of the role is preventing disputes from arising by conducting salient project work and giving well informed advice to stakeholders. My experience of the analysis of food and animal feed will help me to discharge my duties in this important statutory role.’