LAHORE: Food safety teams of the Punjab Food Authority (PFA) conducted a targeted operation in Kahna Nau and on Sundar Road, during which 5,000 kilogrammes of meat were inspected. As a result, 1,400 kilogrammes of expired frozen meat were confiscated and destroyed on the spot. In addition, the teams seized 900 kilogrammes of gram pulse (chana dal), 80 kilogrammes of gram flour (besan), 100 kilogrammes of maize flour, a grinding unit (chakki), and a weighing scale. The production of a milling unit involved in preparing substandard and adulterated gram flour was halted, and samples were collected for laboratory analysis. DG PFA Asim Javaid stated that the unit was sealed after it was found mixing maize flour in gram flour, constituting a clear violation of food safety laws. Expired frozen meat was also recovered from a cold storage facility and disposed of in accordance with regulations. He further disclosed that mandatory labeling was missing on stored expired products, while poor hygiene conditions were observed at the premises. Employees lacked valid medical certificates, and essential operational records were not available. Fresh and expired meat being stored together in violation of prescribed regulations. The DG emphasised that under the vision of the chief minister, timely action ensured the removal of hazardous meat from the supply chain. He warned that laws are being made stricter for those involved in food adulteration, adding that violations will result in FIR registration and closure of business operations. He urged all food business operators to strictly comply with the standards set by the Punjab Food Authority, particularly during the holy month, warning that no leniency would be shown to those jeopardizing public health for unlawful profits. The DG reiterated that operations are continuing round the clock to achieve the Chief Minister’s mission of a healthy and adulteration-free Punjab. He said the operation is being carried on the directives of the chief minister of Punjab. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026