The Punjab Food Authority (PFA) has launched a massive crackdown on substandard and counterfeit food products in Lahore. On the orders of the Director General (DG) Food Authority, food safety teams raided multiple locations, including a ketchup manufacturing unit in Shalimar Town, where they destroyed 2,500 kg of expired ketchup and 1,000 kg of unapproved packaging material.
The violations were severe, leading to a fine of Rs 100,000 on the factory owners. In addition, the food safety teams inspected 633 Sehri points across the city, imposing fines totaling Rs 940,000 for non-compliance with food safety regulations.
Expired Ketchup and Unhygienic Conditions Exposed
According to the DG Food Authority, the ketchup manufacturing unit was found guilty of using substandard and non-food-grade ingredients. The on-site quality test confirmed that the ketchup failed to meet safety standards, posing a serious health risk to consumers.
Key violations found at the unit:
Use of expired and low-quality ingredients in ketchup preparation.
Production in filthy, rusted containers, with poor hygiene standards.
Presence of insects and rodents in the storage areas.
Unapproved packaging and missing product registration labels.
Employees working without medical certifications.
Due to the severity of the violations, a case has been registered against the unit for food counterfeiting, which is considered a serious offense under Punjab Food Authority laws.
633 Sehri Points Inspected, Rs 940,000 in Fines Imposed
During the ongoing food safety campaign, food safety teams inspected 633 Sehri points in Lahore. These are temporary food stalls and restaurants catering to people during Ramadan.
Key violations at Sehri points:
Use of expired and low-quality cooking oil.
Poor hygiene conditions and lack of proper food storage.
Non-compliance with food safety guidelines.
Absence of medical certificates for food handlers.
Strict action was taken, and fines amounting to Rs 940,000 were imposed on violators. The DG Food Authority reiterated that all food businesses must follow Punjab Food Authority regulations, or they will face legal action, heavy fines, or even shutdowns.
Why Food Safety Matters: Health Risks of Counterfeit Food
The crackdown comes amid growing concerns over adulterated and unhygienic food production in Pakistan. The use of unhealthy ingredients and poor hygiene standards in food manufacturing can lead to serious health risks, including:
Food poisoning and stomach infections.
Long-term diseases like cancer due to harmful chemicals.
Weakened immune system due to contaminated food.
The Punjab Food Authority has vowed to continue its crackdown to eliminate counterfeit food businesses and ensure that citizens get access to safe and healthy food.
Punjab Food Authority’s Strict Warning to Food Businesses
The DG Food Authority has warned that the business of counterfeiting and adulteration will not be tolerated. All food manufacturers and sellers must follow food safety laws or risk facing legal consequences.
Key guidelines for food businesses:
Use approved, high-quality ingredients in food production.
Maintain proper hygiene and cleanliness in preparation areas.
Ensure all employees have valid medical certificates.
Register all products and use approved packaging.
The PFA has urged the public to report any suspicious or unhygienic food businesses to help authorities take action against counterfeit food manufacturers.
A Much-Needed Crackdown on Unsafe Food
The latest action by the Punjab Food Authority sends a strong message to food manufacturers and sellers who violate safety standards. The seizure of expired ketchup and crackdown on unhygienic food stalls highlights the ongoing issue of food adulteration in Pakistan.
Consumers are encouraged to stay vigilant and buy food only from reputable and hygienic sources. The Punjab Food Authority has assured the public that it will continue taking strict action against counterfeit food businesses to protect public health and safety.
