Eateries fined for selling unhygienic food in Balochistan

Balochistan Food Authority (BFA) imposed fines on six hotels and restaurants, including a mineral water plant, a general store and a department store for providing substandard food in Gwadar city and adjoining areas. Correctional notices were also issued to several centers.

A BFA food safety team led by Deputy Director Operations Nighat Din conducted the operation. Assistant Commissioner Gwadar Capt (retd) Athar Abbas also accompanied the BFA officials on the occasion.

Hotels and restaurants were fined for poor hygiene, use of substandard ingredients for food and lack of personal hygiene by employees.

The water plant was penalised for unhygienic conditions in the unit, poor drainage arrangements, lack of testing system for examining the quality of water and record of salinity. General stores and department stores were fined for selling expired spices, beverages and other products.

Expired items recovered during the operation were destroyed on the spot.

Meanwhile, Balochistan Food Authority Director General Ibrahim Baloch said the scope of BFA has been extended to major cities and districts across the province. Authority’s aim is to provide quality food to the people in accordance with the principles of quality and hygiene.

“BFA's food safety teams are urging not only large eateries but also small-scale food retailers, including small hotels, general stores, and shop owners, to ensure that people are provided with quality, safe and unadulterated food,” he said, adding that hotels and other food and beverage outlets located on national highways are also being checked regularly so that the grievances of the passengers can be addressed and they can be provided with fresh and good quality food during the journey.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 30^th, 2020.