The enforcement teams of the Punjab Food Authority (PFA), led by the Additional Director of Lahore, conducted a comprehensive food safety audit targeting prominent food brands in the city. During the operation, a well-known bakery's production unit situated at Hamdard Chowk was sealed and penalized for severe breaches of food safety regulations.
Massive Seizure of Contaminated Products
Food safety teams discarded a substantial quantity of substandard and hazardous materials, including 4,500 kilograms of khoya, 840 kilograms of cream, 50 liters of expired chemicals, and over one maund of raw materials. The inspection teams discovered fungus-infested khoya within the unit and immediately destroyed it to prevent any risk to public health. Additionally, they found that the expiry dates on drums of desi ghee had been tampered with and altered, indicating deliberate deception.
Use of Substandard Ingredients
The audit revealed that substandard raw materials were being utilized in the preparation of bakery products, posing a significant threat to consumer health. The PFA officials emphasized that such practices are unacceptable and endanger the well-being of the public.
Unsanitary Conditions and Pest Infestation
Director General of PFA, Syed Musa Raza, stated that the inspection uncovered dirty water accumulated on broken floors in the production section, foul environmental conditions, and poor sanitation arrangements. A large number of cockroaches were found inside the cheese cold storage area, indicating severe hygiene violations. He reiterated that regardless of whether it is a large food industry or a roadside eatery, obtaining a food license, ensuring medical screening and training of food handlers, and complying with food safety laws are mandatory requirements.
Strict Enforcement of Food Laws
Syed Musa Raza further said that strict action is being taken against industries and food businesses found violating food regulations. He added that food audits are being conducted to ensure compliance with food hygiene standards, product quality requirements, maintenance of mandatory records, and implementation of food safety standard operating procedures. The Punjab Food Authority is ensuring uniform enforcement of food laws across all food businesses, irrespective of their size or market presence.
In a separate development, loans were provided to 156,983 beneficiaries under various schemes, though this was not directly related to the food safety operation.
