Punjab Food Authority Cracks Down on Dairy Adulteration in Lahore

The Punjab Food Authority (PFA), led by Director General Muhammad Asim Javaid, launched comprehensive operations across Lahore targeting food adulteration, which led to the sealing of a well-known restaurant and two dairy shops. The operations were carried out in areas including Thokar Niaz Baig, Ravi Road, and Gowalmandi, among others.

The enforcement team inspected 17 food points and dairy shops, as well as 35 suppliers and wholesalers, checking a total of 84,000 liters of milk. Violations resulted in fines totaling Rs200,000 for seven outlets. During the inspections, 600 liters of counterfeit milk and various substandard spices were confiscated and destroyed.

The PFA also registered a First Information Report (FIR) after some milk samples failed laboratory tests, leading to the sealing of the implicated dairy shops due to inadequate management practices. A prominent restaurant in Gowalmandi was closed down for non-compliance with previous directives, with inspectors noting the presence of a foul-smelling kitchen, stagnant water, and severe insect infestations.

Additionally, the lack of mandatory records, employee medical certificates, and training certificates was observed at multiple units. Director General Javaid emphasized the importance of maintaining the quality of milk, meat, and essential food items as a priority, and stated that the PFA is conducting marathon operations with a zero-tolerance policy towards adulteration.

The PFA has urged food business operators to strictly adhere to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and food laws, and encouraged the public to report any violations to the PFA helpline.