In a significant joint operation targeting milk adulteration, the Punjab Food Authority (PFA) and the Islamabad Food Authority (IFA) have conducted extensive inspections over the past two months, scrutinizing approximately 130,000 liters of milk. This crackdown led to the disposal of 28,000 liters of adulterated and counterfeit milk, preventing it from reaching consumers in the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi and surrounding regions.
Major Raids and Legal Actions
Based on intelligence reports and reconnaissance, teams from both authorities executed raids at various locations. During these operations, First Information Reports (FIRs) were registered against 14 individuals involved in the malpractice, as confirmed by the Punjab information department in a press release. The authorities emphasized that indiscriminate actions against the 'adulteration mafia' will persist, with no leniency shown to those violating food safety laws.
Details of Adulteration Methods
Inspections uncovered that large quantities of so-called 'milk' were being produced by mixing milk powder and vegetable oil. Out of 68 samples collected over the two-month period, 23 failed due to water contamination, while 14 were rejected after testing positive for dry powder and vegetable oil. Additionally, officials seized 1,000 kg of vegetable ghee or oil, 525 kg of dry powder, and a significant amount of detergent, all intended for use in manufacturing counterfeit milk.
Commitment to Food Safety
The PFA director general reaffirmed that providing citizens with quality and safe food remains the top priority. He stated that ongoing operations aim to curb such malpractices and protect public health. Authorities have urged citizens to report any complaints regarding milk or other food adulteration immediately by contacting the 1223 helpline, enabling timely intervention.
This crackdown highlights the collaborative efforts of food authorities to combat adulteration and ensure food safety in urban areas, with a focus on preventing harmful products from entering the market.
