IFA raids Tarlai factory

Islamabad:The Islamabad Food Authority (IFA) has conducted a raid at ketchup manufacturing unit and sealed it due to the unhygienic production and storing food products in unsafe conditions.

Talking to APP, Deputy Director Operations of IFA, Dr Tahira Siddique said that the food safety teams raided a ketchup unit located in Tarlai. The operation resulted in the seizure of 600 kilograms of unsafe ketchup, 130 kilograms of sweeteners, and banned food colorings. All items were destroyed on-site, and the unit was sealed.

According to the Deputy Director of Islamabad Food Authority, the action was taken after the unit failed to follow previously issued instructions. Officials had earlier warned the manufacturer to improve safety measures, but no steps were taken. Dr. Tahira Siddique, representing the authority, said that during the raid, officials found harmful chemicals, banned food colors, and different types of sweeteners.

On-site testing showed that the ketchup did not meet safety standards, leading to its destruction. The ketchup samples were found to be far below the set safety benchmarks. The labels on the products also violated packaging laws, said Dr. Siddique. Officials reported unhygienic conditions inside the unit.

Insects were present in large numbers, cigarette remains were scattered, and spider webs were visible on the walls. The ketchup was being stored on a broken floor. The team also found that crucial records regarding ingredients and production were missing.