RCB takes swift action against contaminated food

A total of 218 outlets have been closed under regulatory measures

RAWALPINDI:

The Food Control Cell of Rawalpindi Cantonment Board has undertaken proactive measures to combat the sale of adulterated food products that contravene established sanitation and hygiene standards.

As part of their efforts, they have imposed a fine amounting to Rs10.1 million, disposed of 15,685 kg of spoiled meat, destroyed 22,890 litres of contaminated milk, and sealed a total of 218 shops during the course of the operation.

Under the diligent supervision of Deputy CEO Muhammad Tanveer, the Food Control Cell, headed by Chaudhry Haroon Zafar, executed extensive operations targeting food outlets across all Cantt areas.

These operations were carried out in strict compliance with the instructions of Cantonment Executive Officer Imran Gulzar, with the primary aim of ensuring that the residents of Rawalpindi Cantt are provided with food items that adhere to stringent hygienic standards.

The officials of the Food Control Cell have taken strict measures to enforce hygienic standards, including imposing substantial fines under Section 118C on food businesses found to be in violation.

By the conclusion of the fiscal year in June 2023, the dedicated efforts of the Food Control Cell team have resulted in the successful achievement of their respective targets.

Special Judicial Magistrate Rawalpindi Cantt imposed penalties of Rs227,000 on multiple food-related cases, leading to a significant recovery of Rs10.1 million. Additionally, a total of 1,875 show-cause notices were issued as part of the comprehensive regulatory actions.

In its rigorous enforcement measures, the Food Control Cell took decisive action by sealing 218 diverse outlets found to have substandard hygiene and inadequate sanitary conditions.

A significant quantity of approximately 22,980 litres of milk was discarded from both milk shops selling compromised milk and vehicles entering the city. Furthermore, as part of the crackdown on unhygienic meat vendors and unlawful slaughter, a substantial 15,685 kg of meat was destroyed.

Published in The Express Tribune, May 17^th, 2023.