Islamabad Intensifies Food Safety Operations
In July, the Islamabad Food Authority (IFA) significantly ramped up its citywide food safety efforts, carrying out 1,276 inspections across restaurants, bakeries, general stores, food processing units, and roadside vendors. This initiative is one more step in the IFA campaign to impose strict controls on food hygiene and food safety within the federal capital. Deputy Director of Operations Dr. Tahira Siddique stated that these operations aim to enhance compliance levels and protect the health of the people.
Widespread Inspections, Fines, and Closures
A total of 856 food establishments were also issued improvement notices after extensive inspections were carried out to ensure that food outlets improved their practices regarding storage, handling, and overall cleanliness. In more severe cases, 113 establishments were fined a total of Rs. 2.01 million, and 58 establishments were closed due to repeated or serious offenses of the food safety regulations. The IFA also did not limit itself to penalties; instead, many unsafe products were seized and destroyed immediately so that people would not suffer.
Thousands of Kilos of Unsafe Food Seized and Destroyed
During the month-long enforcement operation, the IFA seized and destroyed more than 3,000 kilograms of food materials found to be expired, substandard, or adulterated. This consisted of 1,050 kg of spoiled meat, 923 kg of contaminated milk and dairy products per liter, 249 kg of stale food, and 227 kg of expired products per liter. The Customs officers also destroyed 41 liters of oil, which was not in a condition to be consumed, 15 kilograms of non-iodized salt, 20 kilograms of contaminated tea, and 12 kilograms of prohibited MSG. A total of 265 liters of low-grade drinks, 233 kg/liter of spoiled products, and 1,577 sachets of banned products were removed.
Public Complaints, Food Licenses, and Legal Action
The IFA reviewed 51 complaints reported to the public, and these complaints were addressed and resolved within a short period. In the same timeframe, 425 businesses that met the legal and hygiene parameters were granted food licenses, but one establishment was recorded with an FIR registered on grounds of violating serious sections. The authority took 34 food samples to be analyzed in the laboratory to determine the action to be taken against the offenders.
Sustained Efforts to Ensure Food Safety in Islamabad
Dr. Siddique pointed out that such operations are only a part of the overall strategy, which includes regular inspections, public education, and effective enforcement of the law. Food establishments have been advised to ensure they still have valid licenses and documentation, and that consumers should report any violations through the helpline or online portal developed by IFA. The Islamabad Food Authority will ensure that food safety is maintained to high standards as the crackdown continues to ensure the security of the people’s health.
