RAWALPINDI, Feb 20 (APP): In a major crackdown during the Holy Month of Ramazan, the Punjab Food Authority (PFA) and the Islamabad Food Authority (IFA) on Friday unearthed a large fake milk manufacturing network operating from a residential house near Lehtrar Road.
Acting on a tip-off, the enforcement teams of the two food authorities raided the premises and seized around 13,000 litres of hazardous milk solution prepared using powdered substances and vanaspati ghee. The adulterated mixture was disposed of on the spot to prevent its distribution.
According to a PFA spokesperson, the officials also recovered 480 kilograms of vanaspati ghee, 50 kilograms of dry powder and machinery used in the preparation of counterfeit milk. The product was reportedly intended for supply to the residents of the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi, where consumption of milk and yoghurt rises significantly during Ramazan.
The spokesman said the timely action averted a serious public health risk. A case was registered at the complaint of the Islamabad Food Authority against those involved in the illicit trade, and further investigations were under way.
He added that, with the assistance of the Punjab Food Authority, enforcement operations had also been intensified in various areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to dismantle similar networks.
The spokesman reiterated that a zero-tolerance policy was being enforced against food adulteration during Ramazan, stressing that the provision of safe and quality food remains a top priority. Citizens were urged to report suspected adulteration or related activities to the helpline 1223 for prompt action.