The recent findings of the Sindh Food Authority (SFA) regarding milk adulteration in Karachi are deeply disturbing and demand immediate action. According to the recent reports, 55 per cent of milk samples collected from the city – 71 out of 127 tested – were found adulterated with harmful chemicals, including detergents, salt, sugar and excessive water. Even more alarming is the claim that milk and tea leaves used by almost every roadside tea stall are contaminated.
This is not a minor issue of quality; it is a serious public health emergency. Detergents and other chemical agents are harsh cleaning substances that can cause severe gastrointestinal irritation, long-term kidney and liver damage, and other chronic illnesses. For a city like Karachi, where millions rely daily on milk and tea from shops and vendors, the scale of this contamination is terrifying.
The SFA’s findings raise urgent questions: Where is the regulation? Why are suppliers and shop owners not being held accountable? What steps are being taken to ensure that citizens are not poisoned in the name of daily consumption?
Authorities must launch an immediate crackdown on those involved, strengthen food safety inspections and enforce penalties on violators. Public awareness campaigns are equally essential so that citizens know what they are consuming.
Amir Shahzad
Karachi
