PFA shuts down 10 food points on motorway: Here’s why

LAHORE: The Punjab Food Authority (PFA) has closed 10 food outlets on the Lahore-Faisalabad Motorway after extensive inspections to ensure availability of safe and high-quality food to passengers, here on Saturday.

As per the details, under the direction of PFA Director General Muhammad Asim Javaid, the teams headed by PFA Additional Director General (Operations) Sardar Asif Dogar inspected 81 food establishments including restaurants, tuck shops and cafes. The inspection focused on evaluating food safety standards in production areas, kitchens, and overall hygiene.

This resulted in the closure of 10 popular food outlets for non-compliance with health and safety regulations, while 63 eateries were fined a total of Rs 1.8 million. Additionally, 25 other shops received warning notices for improvement. The PFA teams also seized 205 kg of unhealthy meat and 49 kg of expired food items during the inspection.

PFA Director General Muhammad Asim Javaid said the crackdown targeted outlets that were found to be maintaining a poor hygienic environment, storing expired products and improperly mixing dairy and meat. were guilty of hoarding. These inspections covered various eateries in motorway service areas, with the aim of protecting passengers from substandard food.

He further stressed that all food business operators (FBOs) operating in these service areas must obtain approval from the relevant authorities before selling imported and local food products.

The PFA, acting under the instructions of the Chief Minister, continues its vigil on GT Road, motorways, lorry stands, and eateries along bus terminals. The PFA has issued a stern warning to food outlets on the M1, M2 and M3 motorways to adhere to food safety standards or face further action.

Passengers are encouraged to check the quality of food before purchasing and report any concerns to the PFA helpline 1223.