Inspection Drive Covers More Than 100 Establishments
The Punjab Food Authority (PFA) increased its monitoring efforts in Gujrat this week. Acting on the instructions of Deputy Director Rizwan Saeed, inspection teams moved through several neighbourhoods to check food quality and hygiene standards.
They visited 109 establishments, including restaurants, bakeries and small food outlets. Teams observed a mix of minor and serious violations during their rounds.
Inspectors issued 31 improvement notices. These notices direct businesses to fix specific issues, such as poor cleaning practices or improper storage methods. Many outlets struggle with basic hygiene, so officials encourage them to correct mistakes before they face tougher action.
Fines and Temporary Closures for Violators
Teams also issued fines after spotting clear breaches of food safety rules. They fined 12 businesses a total of 87,500 Pakistani rupees. The violations included dirty work areas, mishandling of ingredients and incorrect temperature control.
Inspectors shut down two establishments that posed an immediate risk to public health. These outlets must meet all Standard Operating Procedures before reopening. Officials say temporary closures send a strong message to owners who show repeated negligence.
The teams also handled one complaint on-site. They resolved the issue after confirming the customer’s concerns. Quick responses help strengthen public trust in the food safety system.
Disposal of Expired Items and Sample Collection
PFA teams collected one food sample for laboratory testing. Lab reports often guide follow-up actions if they detect harmful bacteria or adulterated materials.
During the inspections, officers also seized 2.49 kilograms of expired food. They destroyed the items to prevent them from entering the market. Even small amounts of spoiled food can endanger consumers, especially during warmer months when contamination spreads quickly.
Food quality remains a significant challenge in Pakistan. Health experts estimate that millions suffer from food-borne illnesses each year. Contaminated water, unsafe storage and expired products are common causes.
Authority Promises Regular Monitoring
The PFA says it will continue these operations on a regular basis. Officials aim to improve public health through consistent enforcement and education. Many small vendors lack training, so the authority runs workshops and awareness campaigns to guide them.
Deputy Director Rizwan Saeed urged citizens to report unsafe practices. The PFA helpline and mobile app allow people to file complaints easily. According to officials, public participation strengthens the overall monitoring system.
Saeed reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to safe and clean food for all residents. He noted that strict checks, combined with cooperation from businesses, can reduce health risks across the city.
A Growing Focus on Consumer Protection
Gujrat’s latest inspection drive shows an increasing focus on consumer protection. The PFA hopes that regular checks will push businesses to maintain better standards. Many residents view these efforts as a positive step toward safer dining and healthier communities.
As monitoring continues, the PFA expects more outlets to upgrade their practices. Officials believe that steady enforcement, rather than occasional crackdowns, delivers long-term results.
