Sindh Food Authority seals warehouse in Korangi over expired and unsafe food products

Karachi, November 15, 2024.

Sindh Food Authority’s Vigilance Team led by Mehboob Bhatti inspected a warehouse of an international brand distributor located in Mehran Town, District Korangi, uncovering alarming violations of food safety standards.

During the inspection, a significant quantity of expired and damaged food products was seized. The recovered items included 27,000 packets of Aldiva chocolates, 660 bottles of Harnilla honey, 930 bottles of Hutesa olive oil, and 400 bottles of Nature Home peanut butter. Expired food products were found stored alongside fresh items, with tampered manufacturing and expiry dates noted on many products.

Director General Sindh Food Authority Muzamil Hussain Halepoto said that the sanitary conditions of the warehouse were deplorable, a dead mouse was discovered in the storage area, floors and utensils were filthy, and there were no pest control measures in place. Uncovered food items and short-expiry products were stored improperly. “Damaged and undamaged items were kept on the same shelves, further compromising hygiene.” He further added.

DG SFA further stated that in light of these violations, the warehouse was sealed, and a fine of Rs. 500,000 was imposed on the distributor. The Director General of Sindh Food Authority, Muzamil Hussain Halepoto, stated that such practices will not be tolerated, and all expired and hazardous food items have been destroyed. He reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to ensuring the provision of safe food to the public and emphasized that strict action will continue against those endangering public health.