Eatery sealed for violating food safety SOPs

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ISLAMABAD:

The Islamabad Food Authority (IFA) has sealed a restaurant in sector F-6 for violations of food safety rules.

IFA Deputy Director Operations, Dr Tahira Siddique said that the restaurant was found serving expired food and storing unsafe meat, raising serious concerns about food safety and consumer health.

During the inspection, the IFA team discovered that the restaurant was functioning without a valid license from the authority, a clear breach of local food business regulations. In addition, the staff had failed to follow basic hygiene practices. The team noted that employees did not wear gloves or safety caps while preparing and handling food.

Dr Siddiqui said that the restaurant was not following the standard operating procedures set for food safety. She said the use and sale of expired food items is strictly prohibited, and the presence of such products during inspections leads to immediate action.

The inspection also revealed poor cleanliness in the kitchen and storage areas. Officials highlighted that the restaurant did not have proper arrangements in place to maintain hygiene, further adding to the risk of contamination.

The authority clarified that food businesses in the capital are required to register and obtain a license before starting operations. Running a food outlet without approval from the authority is not allowed and is subject to legal action.

The official emphasised that under the law, restaurants are not allowed to keep or sell expired food products. Businesses found doing so face penalties, closures, or both. The official reiterated that all food outlets must meet the safety standards set by the IFA.