LAHORE: The Punjab Halal Development Agency (PHDA) on Saturday shut down a branch of a famous superstore for selling imported candy called ‘Nerds’ made from ‘haram’ ingredients.

The regulatory body took action against Jalal Sons upon the directions of PHDA Registrar Shoaib Khan Jadoon.

He said the raiding team found the containing of ‘haram’ ingredient “carmine colour” in Nerds candy which was a violation of the Punjab Halal Development Agency. He said PHDA discarded 119 packets of Nerds grapes and strawberry candy on the spot.

Jadoon said the store would remain closed till the rectification and further order.

He said: “According to the PHDA rules, the sale of edibles containing haram ingredients is a heinous crime and our enforcement team will hunt down all those who are involved in this crime and bring them to justice.”

He said it is mandatory for food business operators to get a Halal certificate from the competent authority for the sale of imported food articles in Punjab. The PHDA would not only close down the business of the traders but also confiscate the property who sells haram products and breach the law.

He said the agency has started its action against the marts and superstores after completing the deadline given to the traders for keeping aside products made from prohibited (haram) or suspected ingredients.

Published in Dawn, August 14th, 2022