The Punjab Food Authority (PFA) destroyed 18,000 kilograms of unsafe pickles and seized 12,000 liters of substandard cooking oil during a major operation in Multan. The action targeted food production units operating in unhygienic conditions.
Director General Syed Musa Raza visited Multan on Wednesday and supervised the enforcement operation. He also reviewed ongoing inspections and administrative performance during a meeting at the regional directorate office.
Food Safety Teams Conduct Surprise Inspections
Syed Musa Raza, along with Additional Director Operations Asad Ullah, inspected three food production units. These units were located in Basti Ali Wala, Gardezi Mor Adda Lar, and Khanewal Road.
Officials discovered a fat-rendering unit producing loose cooking oil from animal fat. Moreover, the unit operated without a valid food licence or environmental registration. Consequently, authorities confiscated 12,000 liters of substandard oil and registered a case against the owner.
In another raid, inspectors recovered 18,000 kilograms of contaminated pickles. The stock showed signs of fungus, foul odor, and hazardous contamination. Therefore, the PFA destroyed the entire quantity on the spot to protect public health.
Crackdown Targets Unsafe Food Production Practices
The authority also fined a sweets manufacturing unit Rs. 100,000. The penalty came after officials found the use of substandard ingredients in Sohan Halwa preparation.
Syed Musa Raza emphasized that food safety remains the top priority of the Punjab Food Authority. Furthermore, he said the crackdown against adulteration will continue across Punjab without discrimination.
He warned food business operators to comply strictly with regulations. Otherwise, authorities will take strict legal action against violations to ensure safe food for the public.
