PFA Shuts Down 13 Meat Shops for Safety Violations

In recent developments, the Punjab Food Authority (PFA) has taken significant steps to ensure the safety and quality of meat available to consumers in the province. With a growing concern over food safety, the PFA has shut down 13 meat shops and warehouses due to serious violations of food safety regulations. This action is part of a broader initiative to protect public health and ensure that only safe, hygienic meat reaches the market.

According to the latest monthly performance report released by the PFA, a staggering Rs6.124 million in fines has been imposed on 756 butchers and meat suppliers across Punjab. This indicates a strong commitment from the PFA to enforce food safety laws and hold violators accountable. Additionally, the authority has lodged First Information Reports (FIRs) against 11 Food Business Operators (FBOs) for their non-compliance with the Food Act.

PFA Director General Muhammad Asim Javaid highlighted the extensive efforts made by meat safety teams, who inspected a total of 8,773 meat shops, warehouses, and meat-carrying vehicles throughout the province. These inspections are crucial in ensuring that consumers have access to healthy and safe meat. During these checks, the teams discovered and discarded a shocking 23,380 kilograms of unhygienic meat sourced from sick and dead animals, while also examining over 1,940,000 kilograms of meat for quality.

Javaid emphasized the importance of these inspections, stating that the quality of meat has improved significantly due to daily checks conducted by the Meat Safety Task Force. He warned that consuming unhygienic meat can pose serious health risks, making it essential for consumers to choose fresh and properly handled meat to reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses.

The PFA has adopted a zero-tolerance policy regarding milk and meat quality across all districts of Punjab, including Lahore. Javaid firmly stated, "Our motto is to fight against the adulteration mafia who play with people’s health in the name of food." He made it clear that there is no room for counterfeiters and those involved in the adulteration of food products in Punjab, and their illicit operations will be completely eradicated.

The actions taken by the PFA serve as a reminder of the importance of food safety and the need for vigilance in ensuring that the food we consume is safe and healthy. As consumers, it is our responsibility to be aware of the quality of the food we purchase and to support initiatives that prioritize our health. By standing against the adulteration mafia and advocating for safe food practices, we can contribute to a healthier community for everyone.