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ISLAMABAD, Dec 31 (APP):The Islamabad Food Authority (IFA) has released its annual performance report for 2025, reporting 12,697 enforcement actions, fines of Rs22,028,000 imposed on 1,471 shops, and the destruction of 248,703 kilograms of unsafe food.
According to the report, the Islamabad Food Authority conducted 12,697 actions during 2025. These actions included inspections, raids, sampling, sealing of premises, and imposition of fines. During the same period, 230 food samples were collected for laboratory testing to assess quality and safety.
The report stated that fines totaling Rs22.02 million were imposed on 1,471 shops for selling unsafe or non-compliant food items. These penalties were issued after inspections found violations related to food quality, storage conditions, labeling, and hygiene practices.
In addition to fines, the authority sealed 700 food points across Islamabad for violating hygiene rules. The report notes that these premises were closed following repeated or serious violations. Sealed outlets included eateries, shops, and food handling units operating without meeting required standards.
Licensing activity formed another part of the authority’s work during the year. According to the report, 4,786 food points were issued licenses in 2025. The authority stated that licensing helps regulate food businesses and allows regular monitoring of compliance with food safety rules.
The report also confirmed that 15 food points faced criminal cases due to major violations. These cases were registered where inspections found serious risks to public health. The authority stated that legal action was taken under applicable laws after completing required procedures.
During enforcement operations, a large quantity of unsafe food was removed from the supply chain. The report states that 248,703 kilograms of unsafe food were destroyed during the year. This included spoiled meat, expired products, and items found unfit for consumption after inspection and testing.
The Islamabad Food Authority stated that action against unsafe meat remained a focus area in 2025. Inspections were carried out at meat shops, storage facilities, and transport points. Products found unfit were seized and destroyed according to standard procedures.
Operations were also conducted against expired food items and gutka. The report notes that teams checked retail outlets and warehouses to identify banned or expired products. Items found in violation were confiscated and disposed of during operations.
Dairy products were another key area of enforcement. According to the report, checks were conducted on milk and other dairy items to ensure compliance with quality standards. Substandard products were removed, and responsible outlets faced penalties.
Director Food Authority stated that the authority remained committed to ensuring the availability of safe food in the city. He said inspections and enforcement actions are carried out to protect public health and to ensure compliance by food businesses.
The director added that licensing and regular inspections help maintain records of food points operating in Islamabad. He said licensed outlets are monitored through follow-up visits to ensure continued compliance with rules.
The report stated that public complaints and information also contributed to enforcement actions. The authority encouraged citizens to report unsafe food practices. According to officials, information provided by the public helps identify violations that may not be detected during routine inspections.
During the year, inspection teams operated across different sectors of Islamabad. The report does not specify locations but states that actions were taken in urban and commercial areas to cover a wide range of food businesses.
The Islamabad Food Authority reported that coordination with other departments was carried out when required, particularly during sealing operations and disposal of unsafe food. These steps were taken to ensure lawful and documented action.
According to the authority, future plans include continued inspections, expansion of licensing coverage, and strict action against repeat offenders. The focus will remain on removing unsafe food from markets and ensuring compliance with existing regulations.
The director appealed to citizens to support the authority’s efforts by identifying and reporting unsafe food. He said public participation is important to achieve the goal of a “Healthy Islamabad” through shared responsibility.