LAHORE, Feb 28 (APP):The Punjab Food Authority (PFA) destroyed 50,000 litres of contaminated, used cooking oil and 40,000 kilograms of unsafe papad and namkeen snacks, arrested two suspects and registered a case after raiding a snacks factory in the Gujjumata area, here on Saturday.
The action was carried out on the directions of Muhammad Asim Javaid, Director General
of the Punjab Food Authority, as part of the Chief Minister Punjab’s “Adulteration-Free Punjab” campaign, which has been further intensified during the holy month of Ramazan.
According to the PFA spokesperson, the raiding team found that namkeen snacks were being prepared in dirty, reused oil and with substandard raw materials. Raw ingredients and finished products were lying uncovered on the floor, while false labelling with fake addresses was being used for supply to Lahore’s wholesale market after attractive packaging.
During the operation, the authority also seized 2,400kg flour, 2,500kg adulterated besan, 1,000kg loose spices, four frying cauldrons, and mixing and grinding machines from the unit.
The DG Food Authority said that poor sanitation arrangements, open drains, a filthy washing area and a foul-smelling environment were observed at the premises. Rusted utensils were in use, and the presence of rats and lizards was noted, reflecting serious violations of food safety standards.