The Punjab Food Authority (PFA) has sealed an illegal production unit in Mian Mubarak Town, Nishtar Town, and destroyed 5,000 kilograms of substandard ketchup and mayonnaise worth Rs. 2.5 million.
The products were meant to be supplied to fast-food restaurants during Ramadan.
The action was taken on the directions of PFA Director General Muhammad Asim Javaid. A case has been registered against the owners, and a fine of Rs. 300,000 has been imposed. Authorities are investigating to trace the supply chain.
According to the DG, the raid was carried out after on-the-spot samples of ketchup and mayonnaise failed laboratory tests. The products were being packed with labels of well-known brands to deceive consumers.
Officials found that non-food-grade ingredients were used in making the products. Required documents and workers’ medical certificates were missing. Insects were found inside the unit. Ketchup was stored in dirty, rusted containers, and the business did not have the required product registration or packaging approvals.
The DG said the attractively packed substandard mayonnaise was intended for distribution across Lahore. He warned that businesses involved in food adulteration and fraud would be shut down.
