Lahore- August 20, 2025 – The Punjab Food Authority (PFA) launched a sweeping operation across Lahore this week, sealing eight popular multinational food chains and discarding 14,000 kilograms of unsafe biscuits from a children’s brand. Officials also imposed Rs. 7.45 million in fines on 27 restaurants and food industries for failing to meet safety standards.
PFA Director General Muhammad Asim Javed confirmed that the crackdown was part of an intensified campaign against unhygienic practices and the “adulteration mafia” threatening public health in Punjab.
Why Lahore Food Chains Were Sealed
According to inspection teams, violations included:
- Expired raw materials and mislabeled stock.
- Unsanitary kitchens with pests and leaking ceilings.
- Thawed meat, chemicals, and loose colors used in food production.
- Untrained staff failing to follow hygiene protocols.
During checks, the PFA discarded 300kg of contaminated raw material, 200 liters of unsafe chemicals, and 50kg of loose colors.
“No compromise on food quality will be tolerated. All handlers must undergo medical check-ups and training. Repeat violations will lead to license cancellations,” DG Javed told reporters.
Scale of the Crackdown
The PFA Lahore inspections covered 28 major food chains and factories in the city.
- 8 food chains sealed (multinational & local brands).
- 27 chains and industries fined Rs. 7.45 million.
- 14,000kg biscuits discarded from a leading children’s brand.
- Several snack, oil, ghee, cake, and beverage factories closed.
Officials confirmed that a detailed report will be submitted to the Chief Minister Punjab and the Chief Secretary.
Impact on Diners and Businesses
The closures triggered a strong public reaction in Lahore, where several of the shuttered outlets were considered family favorites. Many residents expressed concerns about children’s health and safety after dining at these chains.
Crowds witnessed shutters dropping on busy outlets, while social media saw a surge in calls for stricter monitoring of multinational food brands in Pakistan.
Restaurant owners have been given deadlines to improve hygiene before they can reopen. If violations persist, the PFA warned of FIRs and permanent closures.
Food Safety Standards in Pakistan
Under food safety laws in Pakistan, all operators — from street vendors to multinational chains — must:
- Source ingredients from verified suppliers.
- Maintain temperature and storage logs.
- Ensure clean, pest-free kitchens.
- Conduct regular staff training in hygiene practices.
The PFA has made it mandatory for all food handlers to undergo medical check-ups and training sessions.
Experts say consistent enforcement of these standards is essential for restoring consumer trust and protecting honest businesses that comply.
What Comes Next
Officials said more surprise inspections will follow after public complaints. Restaurants must now complete:
- Deep cleaning and equipment repairs.
- Staff medical check-ups.
- Comprehensive hygiene training.
Until then, sealed outlets will remain closed.
DG Javed emphasized that equal enforcement of laws applies across Lahore — from luxury restaurants to roadside stalls.
What Lahore Diners Should Do
Food safety experts recommend:
- Choosing outlets with visible kitchens and clear hygiene practices.
- Asking for receipts and sourcing information.
- Reporting violations through the Punjab Food Authority hotline or city apps.
- Favoring trusted local eateries with transparent practices.
Public vigilance, combined with strict enforcement, is seen as key to preventing future Lahore food safety violations
