Punjab Food Authority Cracks Down on Unhygienic Food Outlets in Lahore

Punjab Food Authority enforcement teams conducted operations in various areas of Lahore, taking stern action against food outlets found guilty of poor hygiene and adulteration. The operations resulted in the sealing of two well-known restaurants and the imposition of fines on seven others, totaling Rs210,000. The teams also discarded large quantities of substandard oil and prohibited items. The crackdown highlighted severe hygiene concerns, including spoiled food stored in contaminated freezers and dirty water standing on broken floors.

Key Takeaways:

• The Punjab Food Authority (PFA) enforcement teams inspected 37 food points in Lahore and took action against food outlets found guilty of poor hygiene and adulteration.
• Two well-known restaurants were sealed, while seven others were fined a total of Rs210,000 for violating food safety standards.
• Large quantities of substandard oil and prohibited items were discarded on the spot, highlighting widespread adulteration in the food industry.
• PFA Director General Muhammad Asim Javaid emphasized the importance of medical certification and food safety training for all food handlers, stating that they are mandatory for ensuring public safety.
• Employees at several eateries lacked valid medical fitness certificates and food safety training records, despite receiving improvement notices.
• The PFA has requested citizens to report food-related complaints via the 1223 helpline, demonstrating its commitment to ensuring the provision of safe and nutritious food to the public.

Statistics:

• 37 food points were inspected by PFA enforcement teams during the operations.
• Rs210,000 in fines were imposed on seven food outlets for violating food safety standards.
• 2 well-known restaurants were sealed for poor hygiene and adulteration.
• Large quantities of substandard oil and prohibited items were discarded on the spot.

Sources:

• PFA Director General Muhammad Asim Javaid