In a significant move to uphold public health, the Punjab Food Authority (PFA) has executed a major crackdown on food establishments across Gujrat district. The extensive operation, involving 105 inspections, targeted non-compliant food businesses to enforce strict hygiene and food safety standards.
Widespread Inspections and Enforcement Actions
Under the direct supervision of Deputy Director Rizwan Saeed, the PFA team conducted a thorough sweep of the district's food points. The authority took decisive action against numerous violators, serving 32 food points with improvement notices for failing to meet required protocols. Additionally, 16 establishments received verbal warnings, urging immediate rectification of minor infractions.
The enforcement drive saw fines totaling Rs101,000 imposed on 11 business outlets found guilty of serious hygiene and food safety standard violations. In a more severe measure, an emergency prohibition order was issued against one shop, effectively shutting down its operations due to critical violations that posed immediate health risks.
Product Seizure and Laboratory Testing
The PFA's commitment to consumer safety was further demonstrated through the immediate disposal of 20.01 kilograms of expired and substandard food items discovered during the inspections. This prompt action prevented potentially hazardous products from reaching consumers.
As part of their quality assurance protocol, the authority collected four food samples for detailed laboratory testing. These samples will undergo rigorous analysis to detect any adulteration or quality issues, with further legal action anticipated if the results confirm violations of food safety regulations.
Ongoing Commitment to Food Safety
This comprehensive operation underscores the Punjab Food Authority's determined efforts to ensure that all food businesses in Gujrat district adhere to the highest standards of food safety and hygiene. The authority has reinforced its zero-tolerance policy toward practices that endanger public health, signaling continued vigilance and regular monitoring of food establishments throughout the region.
