Ombudsman orders food price inspections

Responding to public complaints regarding profiteering, violation of official price lists and sale of substandard food items, the Punjab Ombudsman has ordered inspections and immediate action in various districts to safeguard consumer rights and ensure fair market practices.

On the ombudsman's directives, price control magistrates and Punjab Food Authority officials carried out joint inspections in markets and food outlets, reviewing the quality and pricing of essential items, including chicken, fish, meat, milk, eggs, cooking oil, beverages and fried foods. Several instances of overpricing and the sale of unhygienic and unsafe items were uncovered during the inspections.

As a result, fines exceeding Rs600,000 have been imposed on violators. In addition, numerous hotels and restaurants were penalised for poor hygiene, unsafe food handling and unacceptable environmental conditions.

The authorities took strict action against all outlets found breaching health and safety standards.

A spokesperson for the Punjab Ombudsman's Office said the actions were part of an initiative to ensure the availability of safe, hygienic and fairly priced food.

The ombudsman reiterated a zero-tolerance policy against overpricing, adulteration and negligence, directing the officials concerned that the inspections and enforcement drives continue without interruption.