By: Dr MB Qamar/ ANI
Gujranwala — On the directions of Director General Punjab Food Authority Raja Mansoor Ahmed, food safety teams intensified their crackdown against adulteration and unhygienic food practices across Gujranwala, checking 164 food points and units within 48 hours.
According to the Punjab Food Authority spokesperson, operations were conducted in Khyali Darwaza, People’s Colony, Satellite Town, Qila Didar Singh, Wazirabad and adjoining areas. During the inspections, two water plants were closed, while fines amounting to Rs336,000 were imposed on 19 food businesses and two cases were registered.
Food safety teams also destroyed four dozen dirty and broken eggs, a large quantity of substandard oil and expired food items on the spot.
A case was registered against a well-known bakery production unit in People’s Colony for using dirty and broken eggs. Another case was registered against a grocery store at Baran Khyali Darwaza for adulteration of spices.
Two water plants were closed after bacteria were found in their water, until production reforms are carried out. Strict action was also taken against food points and units for failing to comply with previous instructions.
During inspections, the teams found that necessary records, including medical and training certificates of employees, were unavailable at some establishments. Poor sanitation arrangements were also observed, while rats and insects were found in processing areas.
DG Punjab Food Authority Raja Mansoor Ahmed said the authority was making every effort to ensure the supply of quality food and curb the adulteration mafia. He stressed that compliance with food safety regulations was essential for operating a food business in Punjab.
He further said that those who play with the health of citizens would not be given any concession and strict action would continue against elements involved in adulteration and violations of food safety standards.
