LAHORE: The Punjab Food Authority (PFA) on Monday sealed a spice manufacturing unit over adulteration during an operation in the Lalazar Grid Station area on Monday.

During the operation led by PFA Director General Rafaqat Ali Niswana, the raiding team discarded 1,625kg fungus-infested whole chili, 450kg sawdust and 400kg red chili powder, besides 10kg loose colours used in spices.

Mr Niswana said the authority closed down a production unit of Diamond Brand Spices over proved contamination of harmful ingredients and chemicals in the fake red chili powder.

He said PFA officials also witnessed poor storage system, absence of labels on products, an abundance of insects, besides ready spices put on the floor.

He said the factory also failed to produce food licence and medical certificates of workers on the spot.

He said under the Punjab Pure Food Regulations it was compulsory for spice manufactures to mention the details of ingredients, weight, expiry and manufacturing dates, company name, supplier name and address on packing.

The director general said the use of adulterated and inferior quality spices created health issues for the consumers.

Published in Dawn, December 8th, 2020