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ISLAMABAD, Oct 16 (APP):On World Food Day, the Islamabad Food Authority (IFA) launched an all-night crackdown against food adulteration, discarding 22,000 liters of contaminated milk, sealing two units, and imposing heavy fines on six others.
The operation, carried out on the directions of the IFA Director, was part of a citywide campaign to ensure the availability of safe and quality food to citizens.
Talking to APP, Deputy Director Operations of IFA, Dr Tahira Siddique said that the teams worked tirelessly to check food points, dairy suppliers, and milk storage facilities.
During the inspection, two food units were sealed, while six others were heavily fined for violating food safety standards. According to IFA officials, 22,000 liters of adulterated milk were discarded on the spot after laboratory tests confirmed contamination. The milk was found mixed with water, milk powder, and other banned substances, resulting in the loss of its natural nutritional value.
Dr. Tahira Siddique said that field tests conducted during the operation confirmed the adulteration, prompting immediate disposal of the contaminated milk to prevent it from reaching consumers. She added that several food handlers were found with poor hygiene practices, and many food points lacked basic cleanliness and sanitation arrangements.
The Deputy Director revealed that the teams discovered improper dishwashing practices, where surfactants meant for cleaning clothes were being used to wash utensils. She said this practice not only violates food safety protocols but also poses a serious health hazard to the public.
The inspection teams also found that many establishments failed to maintain essential operational records and documentation, which are mandatory under food safety regulations. Notices were issued to several outlets for not complying with standard procedures.
Dr. Siddique explained that the IFA has repeatedly instructed food businesses to follow hygiene and safety protocols. Despite multiple warnings and improvement notices, some food points failed to make necessary corrections, leading to penalties and closures.
She said that the authority’s crackdown is part of its ongoing effort to eliminate unsafe food practices in the federal capital. “The IFA is committed to ensuring that citizens have access to clean, safe, and quality food,” she said.
The IFA’s night-long operation also included inspections of eateries, milk shops, and processing units. Teams carried out spot tests using mobile labs to check for adulteration, ensuring quick and transparent results.
Officials stated that improvement notices were issued to multiple food outlets where minor irregularities were observed. The authority emphasized that compliance with food safety Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) is mandatory for all businesses involved in food handling, preparation, and distribution.
Dr. Siddique reaffirmed that the zero-tolerance policy against adulteration and food safety violations would continue. “No one will be allowed to compromise public health. Those found guilty of endangering consumer safety will face strict legal action,” she said.
The Deputy Director added that the IFA has also intensified its awareness campaign to educate food handlers about hygiene, proper storage, and preparation practices. The authority regularly conducts training sessions and distributes guidelines to help businesses comply with food safety laws.
She further stated that the sale of banned, expired, or unregistered food items is strictly prohibited, and teams are conducting routine market visits to ensure compliance.
Dr. Siddique appreciated the dedication of the food safety teams who worked throughout the night on World Food Day to protect consumers from harmful food. “Our teams remained active all night to make sure that citizens wake up to safer food options,” she said.
The Islamabad Food Authority reiterated that its inspection and enforcement drives would continue without interruption. The authority called upon all food business operators to maintain cleanliness, follow legal standards, and cooperate during inspections.
IFA officials warned that repeated non-compliance would result in harsher penalties, including permanent closure of outlets and criminal proceedings.
The IFA’s World Food Day operation reflects the authority’s firm stance against adulteration and its commitment to ensuring public health through strict monitoring, enforcement, and awareness.
“The safety of citizens is our top priority,” Dr. Siddique concluded. “We will continue to act firmly against all those who endanger food safety in the capital.”