Punjab Food Authority, directed by Director General PFA Syed Musa Raza, has conducted operations in Sundar Estate, Multan Road, Samanabad, and College Road. During the crackdown, four food units were inspected, resulting in the sealing of three units and imposition of a Rs200,000 fine on one outlet over serious violations of food safety laws. Food safety teams discarded over 3,000 liters of substandard flavored drinks prepared with chemicals, along with expired food items. DG PFA said that strict action was taken against the units for failing to comply with previously issued instructions.
He said that poor sanitation arrangements and foul-smelling environments were observed in the units. And that expiry and production dates were missing on food products prepared for sale. He said that stagnant, dirty water and fungus-infected freezers were found in a bakery production unit. Employees were operating without mandatory medical and training certificates, while essential documents were also unavailable. He said that food items were found placed on dirty and broken floors, and rusted machinery was being used during production. Heavy cockroach infestation was also observed in the processing areas.
DG PFA said that there will be no compromise on oil change records, food storage standards, and expiry compliance. He said the Punjab Food Authority is ensuring implementation of food safety SOPs across Punjab to guarantee the provision of quality food to the public. He has requested the public to support the PFA in eliminating the adulteration mafia and report to the PFA on its 1223 helpline number in case of any complaints.